Hi, my Gran has just been diagnosed with "vascular dementia", the doctor told my family that this is a series of mini strokes? What does tis mean?? and what kind of effect will this have on her?

Luke,

Yes, the most common form of vascular dementia is caused by transient ischemic attacks (mini strokes from blockages to the blood vessels in the brain). The strokes on their own may only cause mild and temporary difficulties such as vision problems and impairments in consciousness. However, over time the strokes damage the brain and effect the blood flow to the brain and result in problems with memory, communication and cognitive function. There may also be associated physical difficulties. This is a degenerative disease unfortunately. Onset can be quite gradual with some people, but for some it can be quite dramatic.

Although you cannot cure this problem, there are many things you can do to slow it down. Certain drugs can be prescribed which help with circulation and reduce the chance of further strokes. Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists can help with motor skills, speech, memory and cognitive function. It is important to also focus on your grandmother's general health and look at a healthy diet, exercise and avoiding cigarettes.

I think it is important that your family talks to the doctor to find out what medication and services are available. It may also may be helpful to contact any local support groups.

As fas as cognitive function, memory and speech are concerned, focus on strategies to help memory such as diaries and calendars. Help your grandmother have a daily routine that she can stick to. Encourage your grandmother to do some tasks each day that exercise her brain and take some time-out to talk with her and have a conversation so she is using her speech and social skills regularly. Be patient when communicating, avoid long sentences of complex information, give her time to process what you have said and give a reply, and avoid distractions such as the TV when you are trying to talk to her.

I will be putting a lot of new information on the site next month around brain injury and stroke and this will have lots of good strategies for memory, communication and cognition that are relevant to your grandmother.

I hope that is of some help Luke. Feel free to ask further questions any time.

Regards Johan