The Onset and Symptoms of Vascular Dementia

9. Treatment

Treatment of vascular dementia may help slow the progress, but it is not possible to reverse the changes or cure the condition. Many healthcare professionals have the skills to support a person with vascular dementia to ensure the best possible quality of life. People with vascular dementia can benefit from lifestyle changes that target the underlying cardiovascular causes of the condition. These include following a healthy, low-salt diet, losing weight, stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, and regular exercise. Some people need medication for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Drugs that reduce the risk of blood clots will help prevent future strokes.

Diabetes should be kept under good control. If the person with vascular dementia is distressed or aggressive, then medication to calm these episodes may help.

For someone with vascular dementia, various aids and therapies can make the activities of daily living much easier. Speech and language therapy may help with communication, and practical aids can enable them to dress on their own. Mental exercises can improve memory and problem-solving skills. Relaxation activities, such as music and dance therapy or massage, may be helpful, and medication aids and pillboxes may help someone who has memory loss.