Memory loss is typically the first sign of dementia, but what is dementia? When most people hear dementia they think of Alzheimer’s.  Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. But there forms of dementia, such as vascular which affects approximately 15 -25% of dementias.  With vascular dementias the mental function is generally damaged by multiple small strokes and unlike Alzheimer’s, it usually appears suddenly.  Risk factors for vascular dementia include high blood pressure, high blood fat, diabetes, smoking, and old age. Vascular dementia is also more common in men than in women.

Dementia simply is that there is a problem with the brain that makes it hard for a person to remember, learn and communicate. As the dementia progresses the individual may have disruptive behavior and others. Remember with the first signs of memory loss, contact your primary care physician. If you are unsure of what questions to ask your physician, contact a geriatric care manager such as My Health Care Manager, www.myhealthcaremanager.com who will assist you in preparing for a discussion with your physician.   For more information on the types of dementia contact the American Geriatrics Society.  www.healthinaging.org .