The Onset and Symptoms of Vascular Dementia

10. Risk Factors and Prevention

The main factors that put someone at risk of developing vascular dementia are the same as those that raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases and strokes. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, alcohol, and obesity. After 65 years of age, the risk of dementia increases and doubles every five subsequent years. Vascular dementia is relatively uncommon before this period.

There is evidence that keeping mentally and socially active reduces the risk of developing vascular dementia and slows down mental decline. Recent research suggests there may be a genetic link between some forms of vascular dementia and cardiovascular disease. For people with a family history of stroke, heart disease, or diabetes, there appears to be an increased risk of developing vascular dementia.