Overview
Damage to blood vessels reduces the brain's ability to process information efficiently. Vascular changes frequently coexist with Alzheimer's disease.
Common symptoms
- Slowed thinking and processing
- Difficulty planning, organizing, and problem-solving
- Walking changes and unsteadiness
- Mood changes, including apathy
- Urinary urgency
How it progresses
Progression may be gradual or stepwise, with noticeable declines after strokes and periods of relative stability in between.
How it is diagnosed
MRI or CT showing strokes or white matter disease, plus cognitive testing and vascular risk assessment.
Treatment
Aggressive control of blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and sleep apnea. Exercise and smoking cessation are central. Symptomatic medications may be considered.
What families should know
- Risk factor control can influence the future course
- Physical and occupational therapy often help
- Depression is common and treatable
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is my blood pressure target?
- Should I be screened for sleep apnea or atrial fibrillation?
- Would rehabilitation help?
Related resources
Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.