Vascular Dementia

One of the most common types of dementia in older adults, vascular dementia (VaD) refers to a subtle, progressive decline of memory and other cognitive function, such as thinking, learning, remembering, organization skills and complex visual processing. VaD is caused by a chronic, reduced blood flow in the brain. Normally, the brain cells receive an ample supply of blood, which is delivered through a network of blood vessels called the vascular system.

VaD may be caused by stroke, in which the blood supply to the brain becomes blocked, resulting in permanent brain damage. VaD caused by a single stroke is called single-infarct dementia. The condition can also be caused by a series of small, often unnoticeable strokes called multi-infarct dementia. Damage to tiny blood vessels that lie deep in the brain may also lead to a type of VaD known as sub-cortical vascular dementia. VaD may also occur with Alzheimer's disease, which causes similar symptoms, such as memory loss.

High blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and alcoholism may cause or increase a person's chances of having vascular disease, such as a stroke, and therefore developing VaD. It is important that these conditions are diagnosed and treated promptly as a way to prevent VaD. Males and African Americans are also at an increased risk of developing the disease.

For diagnosis and treatment, call the UCSF Memory and Aging Center:

You may need a referral from your primary care doctor. Please check with your medical benefits or health insurance representative.

See books recommended by the UCSF Memory and Aging Center.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 13, 2008