Regaining Independence After Stroke: Understanding Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is a type of cognitive decline caused by reduced blood flow to the brain,
often after a stroke or vascular disease. In Sugar Land, Aleris Home Health brings
hospital-level skilled nursing and therapy directly to the home to help patients stay safe,
recover function, and avoid repeat hospitalizations.

Quick Facts

• Often develops after stroke, heart disease, or long-term conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
• Symptoms may appear suddenly or worsen in step-by-step stages
• Managed with skilled nursing, therapy, and medication support at home
• Fast Admission: We can start your care plan within 24–48 hours of referral

What Is Vascular Dementia?

Many families ask, what is vascular dementia?
Vascular dementia occurs when blood vessels in the brain are damaged, reducing the flow of oxygen
and nutrients needed for healthy brain function. This damage affects memory, thinking, judgment,
mobility, and the ability to complete everyday tasks. To know more visit NIA

Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia is closely linked to strokes. These may be large,
noticeable strokes or smaller “silent” strokes that cause damage over time without obvious symptoms.

Brain imaging, such as MRI scans, often shows:

• Evidence of previous strokes
• Damage to small blood vessels
• Changes in white matter, which helps different parts of the brain communicate

While vascular dementia cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and proper treatment strategies
can slow progression, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of hospital readmissions.

Vascular Dementia: Symptoms, Stages, and Treatment Options

Vascular dementia affects each person differently. The symptoms, progression, and response to
treatment depend on which parts of the brain are damaged and how severe the blood flow disruption
has been. Early recognition and proper management play a critical role in maintaining independence
and quality of life.

Vascular Dementia Symptoms

Vascular dementia symptoms can develop suddenly—especially after a stroke—or progress gradually
over time. Many people experience a combination of cognitive, physical, and emotional changes.

• Memory loss, especially for recent events
• Confusion, which may worsen in the evening or at night
• Difficulty understanding or using words
• Trouble concentrating, following instructions, or completing familiar tasks
• Problems with reasoning, planning, and organizing daily activities
• Mood changes such as irritability, depression, anxiety, or agitation
• Personality and behavior changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Walking difficulties, balance problems, or frequent falls
• Tremors or reduced fine motor control
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Episodes of uncontrollable laughing or crying
• Poor judgment and reduced ability to recognize danger

If you or a loved one begins experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.
Early diagnosis allows providers to address risk factors and begin supportive care sooner.

Stages of Vascular Dementia

Unlike some other forms of dementia, vascular dementia does not follow clearly defined stages.
The condition progresses differently for each individual.

In many cases, symptoms worsen gradually over several years. However, symptoms may appear suddenly
or become significantly worse after a major stroke. Some people experience brief periods of stability
or improvement, especially with proper medical management and rehabilitation.

Vascular dementia can also occur alongside Alzheimer’s disease. When both conditions are present,
symptoms may progress more rapidly and vary in severity over time.

Vascular Dementia Treatment

Vascular dementia is not reversible because damaged brain tissue cannot be fully repaired.
Treatment focuses on slowing further brain damage, managing symptoms, and reducing the risk of
additional strokes.

Medications

There are currently no medications specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
for vascular dementia. However, healthcare providers may prescribe certain medications used for
Alzheimer’s disease that may benefit some patients.

• Cholinesterase inhibitors may offer mild to moderate improvements in memory and thinking
• Memantine may help improve cognitive symptoms in some individuals

Providers also prescribe medications to manage stroke risk factors, including:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Heart rhythm disorders

Rehabilitation and Advance Care Planning

Rehabilitation plays an important role in helping people with vascular dementia maintain independence
and safety.

• Physical therapy to improve strength, balance, and mobility
• Occupational therapy to assist with daily activities and home safety
• Speech-language therapy to address communication, swallowing, and cognitive challenges

Additional care team members may include clinical social workers, geriatric case managers,
recreational therapists, registered dietitians, and mental health professionals.

Educational content only; follow your physician’s individualized plan of care.
Call 911 for emergencies.

How Aleris Starts Your Care

Clinical Evaluation

A licensed nurse or therapist assesses cognitive changes, mobility, safety risks, and medical needs.

Personalized Plan of Care

We work directly with your physician to design a care plan addressing vascular dementia symptoms
and underlying conditions.

Recovery and Support Goals

Ongoing skilled nursing, therapy, and caregiver education focused on safety, independence,
and long-term stability.

The Aleris Experience: Local Recovery Stories

Recovery-Focused Care in Sugar Land

A patient was discharged from Methodist Sugar Land Hospital after a mild stroke and began
experiencing confusion, balance problems, and missed medications. Within 48 hours,
Aleris Home Health started skilled nursing and physical therapy at home.
The patient regained confidence and avoided another hospital visit.

Supporting Families in Nearby Communities

A family in Richmond noticed sudden memory loss and poor judgment in a loved one after hospitalization
at Memorial Hermann. Aleris nurses educated the family, coordinated with the physician,
and provided in-home monitoring to prevent re-hospitalization.

Insurance and Eligibility

Medicare Part A typically covers home health services at 100% for patients who qualify
and have a physician’s order. Many private insurance plans also provide coverage.
Aleris Home Health verifies benefits and manages authorizations so families can focus on care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vascular Dementia

How is vascular dementia best treated?

Treatment focuses on preventing further strokes, managing chronic conditions,
and providing supportive care through skilled nursing and therapy.

What are the first signs of vascular dementia?

Early signs include difficulty completing familiar tasks, memory lapses,
mood changes, and poor judgment.

Can vascular dementia come on suddenly?

Yes. Symptoms can appear suddenly after a stroke or worsen in noticeable steps.

Your Recovery Journey Starts at Home

Contact Aleris Home Health today to schedule an evaluation within 24–48 hours and learn more about our Occupational Therapy Services , 24 Hour In-Home Care, and compassionate Alzheimer’s Home Support designed to meet your needs at home.

Call: (281) 313-0087
Visit: 140 Eldridge Rd, Suite H, Sugar Land, Texas 77478
Email: info@alerishomehealth.com
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Author: Alan Jacob / Medical Writer. Primary service areas: Sugar Land, Houston, Spring, and surrounding communities.