What you need to know about vascular dementia
What is vascular dementia?
Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia in the UK, accounting for around 15–20% of all dementia cases.
We understand that being diagnosed with dementia can be unsettling and life-changing, but at Helping Hands, we’re here to take the stress away and support you to live an independent life. Vascular dementia is a common type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, which can damage brain cells over time. It often develops after conditions such as stroke, high blood pressure, or narrowed blood vessels affect the brain’s oxygen supply. Symptoms can include problems with memory, concentration, decision-making, and changes in mood or behaviour. Unlike some other forms of dementia, symptoms of vascular dementia may appear suddenly or worsen in stages.
When to seek medical advice
If you or a family member begin to notice ongoing memory porblems, confusion, difficulty concentrating, or changes in behaviour, it’s a good idea to have a discussion with a healthcare professional. An early diagnosis of vascular dementia, and expert support from a Helping Hands carer, can help ensure the right support, treatment, and care are put in place.
What causes vascular dementia?
Alongside stroke-related damage and long-term conditions affecting blood vessels, vascular dementia can also be caused by a range of other factors that reduce or restrict blood flow to the brain. These include conditions that affect heart health, such as atrial fibrillation or heart failure, which can disrupt normal circulation. In some cases, damage to blood vessels caused by smoking, obesity, or long-term inactivity can also contribute. Less commonly, disorders that affect blood clotting or inflammation in the blood vessels may increase the risk by further limiting oxygen supply to brain tissue.
Is vascular dementia hereditary?
Vascular dementia is not usually considered a directly hereditary condition, but certain health problems linked to it can run in families. Conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes may increase the risk of developing vascular dementia because they can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the brain. In rare cases, inherited genetic disorders that affect blood vessels may contribute to the condition, but for most people, lifestyle and overall cardiovascular health play a much larger role than genetics.
Stages of vascular dementia and what to expect
Early stage
In the early stages, a person may experience mild memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and challenges with planning or decision-making. Many people can still live independently but may notice changes in their daily routines.
Middle stage
As vascular dementia progresses, symptoms often become more noticeable. Individuals may need support with everyday activities, experience increased confusion, mood changes, and difficulties with communication or mobility.
Late stage
In the later stages, people usually require significant assistance with personal care and daily living. Severe cognitive impairment, limited mobility, and difficulties with eating, drinking, or recognising family members may occur.
Caring for someone with vascular dementia
Many family carers find it helpful to seek additional support to help balance caring responsibilities with their own wellbeing.
As a company with many talented carers in our employ, we know that caring for a family member with vascular dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding, as the condition often affects memory, communication, mobility, and daily routines. In the UK, support may be available through local councils and government services, including carer assessments and benefits and Carer’s Allowance. Don’t forget that at Helping Hands, we provide flexible respite care that gives you the opportunity to take a break, rest, or focus on other commitments, while knowing your family member is receiving the best of care at home.
Early signs of vascular dementia
Here are some of the common signs of early dementia:
How vascular dementia is diagnosed
Initial assessment
Diagnosis usually begins with a review of symptoms, medical history, and a discussion about changes in memory, thinking, and daily functioning. A GP may also assess risk factors such as high blood pressure or a history of stroke.
Cognitive testing
Healthcare professionals may carry out memory and thinking tests to evaluate concentration, problem-solving, language, and other cognitive abilities. These assessments help identify patterns of impairment associated with vascular dementia.
Brain scans and further investigations
A diagnosis may be supported by MRI scans or CT scans, which can reveal changes in the brain caused by reduced blood flow or previous strokes. Blood tests may also be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Risk factors for developing vascular dementia
Certain risk factors can include:
Professional dementia care with Helping Hands
We offer expert dementia care that adapts around your lifestyle and routine and can make your home more dementia friendly.
At Helping Hands, we understand that every person living with vascular dementia has unique needs, preferences, and routines. Our dedicated dementia care services provide compassionate, person-centred support designed to promote comfort, independence, and quality of life at home. Whether assistance is needed with personal care, medication reminders, meal preparation, companionship, or daily activities, our trained carers deliver tailored support that adapts as needs change. By focusing on familiar surroundings and meaningful routines, we help our customers living with dementia continue to feel safe, valued, and supported in their own homes.
Treatment options for vascular dementia
Treatment for vascular dementia focuses on slowing progression, managing underlying health conditions, and supporting daily functioning. While there is no cure, early treatment and lifestyle changes can help improve quality of life and reduce further damage to the brain. Some common treatments include:
Home care options
At Helping Hands, we take pride in our ability to adapt to your needs. We can offer expert home care on a live-in, visiting or respite basis.
Visiting care
Live-in care
A fully regulated home care provider
Here at Helping Hands, our service is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW)
This means we need to consistently meet high standards and are monitored by our regulators.
