There are several types of dementia, with the most common form being Alzheimer’s disease. Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia caused by conditions that reduce or block blood flow to the brain, resulting in damage.
Vascular dementia is a progressive disease and can present with 7 stages:
- No impairment
- Very mild decline
- Mild decline
- Moderate decline
- Moderately severe decline
- Severe decline
- Very severe decline
By understanding the disease’s progression and learning what to expect at each stage, family members and caregivers can help provide the right level of care for loved ones with dementia. Personalized memory care in senior living communities supports those with cognitive impairment to live active, meaningful lives.
What Is Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia is a condition often brought on by a stroke or other conditions that block or reduce blood flow to the brain. Inadequate blood flow and lack of oxygen to brain cells cause them to die, impacting the person’s cognitive function.
Vascular dementia is different from Alzheimer’s disease. In vascular dementia, you can experience sudden changes in thinking ability after a stroke, which blocks the major blood vessels in the brain. Or, thinking difficulties can be mild and gradually worsen due to minor strokes or conditions that affect the smaller blood vessels in the brain.
The 7 Stages of Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia can progress in 7 stages, from no impairment to severe decline. Each stage of dementia highlights specific symptoms and care needs, demanding a unique approach to a loved one’s well-being.
Stage 1: No Impairment
The individual at this stage experiences no symptoms of dementia. Cognitive function is unaffected, and everyday behavior remains unchanged.
Stage 2: Very Mild Decline
Minor cognitive decline can start to appear and may include slight memory loss, such as forgetting where you placed items. People can often confuse this with age-related memory changes.
Stage 3: Mild Decline
In this stage, friends and family may notice lapses in a loved one’s memory and judgment. They may have trouble finding words, become disorganized, or have difficulty planning. This stage represents early-stage dementia.
Stage 4: Moderate Decline
Cognitive functions are further compromised. Individuals may struggle with daily tasks, like paying bills and recalling simple information. During this stage, a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis based on more prominent symptoms.
Stage 5: Moderately Severe Decline
By this stage, assistance with daily activities becomes necessary. The individual may no longer be able to perform tasks such as dressing or preparing meals without significant help.
Stage 6: Severe Decline
In this stage, there is no living independently because of an increased need for personal care as the individual’s language skills and physical capacities diminish. There may also be physical and behavioral problems, such as an inability to control emotional responses.
Stage 7: Very Severe Decline
Stage 7 is the final stage of dementia, where verbal skills and physical abilities have drastically diminished. Loved ones in this stage require constant assistance with all their needs.
Symptoms in Dementia Progression
Individuals can progress differently through the above stages of dementia. They can remain in one stage for a long time or progress through them quickly. Symptoms of cognitive and physical changes at each stage outline the evolving needs of those with vascular dementia.
At the heart of the progression is the deterioration of executive functions. These include the capacity to plan, reason, solve problems, and maintain attention. Memory, another vital cognitive function, also declines, affecting recent and long-term recall.
Behavioral changes such as depression, anxiety, and irritability often accompany these cognitive shifts. They can manifest as anger, aggression, or lack of motivation, and managing them becomes an integral part of caregiving.
Care & Support for Vascular Dementia
Caring for a loved one with vascular dementia can be overwhelming, but tailoring care to the specific stage can provide some structure and predictability. While there are no visible signs of dementia in the early stages, it’s vital to establish healthy lifestyle habits that could potentially delay progression. Social engagement and brain-stimulating activities can also help preserve cognitive function.
Middle Stages
During the middle stages, maintaining a safe environment is crucial. Remove potential hazards and introduce memory aids like lists and notes. A well-structured day can help reduce anxiety for loved ones with vascular dementia.
Severe Stages
During the severe stages of cognitive decline, loved ones will need increasing support with daily activities. Family members and caregivers can focus on maintaining their dignity and involving them in as many decisions as possible.
Late Stages
During the late stages, compassionate care and round-the-clock supervision become necessary. Important aspects of care include comfort, physical safety, and promoting quality of life.
Memory Care for Personalized Support
Vascular dementia can occur suddenly or progress gradually. However, with knowledge, early planning, support, and tailored care services, loved ones with dementia can receive the right care for their needs.
If you’re looking for a lifestyle dedicated to caring for and supporting loved ones with dementia, contact The Enclave of East Louisville for more information about our memory care program.