Vascular dementia is a type of dementia that’s caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, which is typically due to a series of small strokes or other blood vessel blockages. It can have various effects on cognitive abilities, including memory, thinking, and problem-solving skills. In addition to these cognitive impairments, vascular dementia can also affect motor functions, including walking. So, how does vascular dementia affect walking? Continue reading our guide to find out.
Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, which is typically due to a series of small strokes or other blood vessel blockages. These disruptions in blood flow can lead to damage in various areas of the brain which results in the characteristic symptoms and cognitive impairments associated with vascular dementia.
Here are some ways in which vascular dementia directly affects the brain:
Vascular dementia often arises from multiple infarcts. These are areas of dead or damaged brain tissue caused by blockages in blood vessels. These infarcts can occur in different regions of the brain which lead to a patchy pattern of damage. The size, number, and location of infarcts can determine the specific symptoms and severity of the disease.
White matter consists of nerve fibres that connect different areas of the brain and allow for communication and information processing. Reduced blood flow results in the degeneration or disruption of white matter tracts, and impair the transmission of signals and affect cognitive functions.
Vascular dementia often arises from small vessel disease, which refers to the narrowing and damage of the small blood vessels in the brain. This can be caused by chronic hypertension, diabetes, or other conditions that affect blood vessel health.
Vascular dementia can affect both the cortical (outer) and subcortical (deeper) regions of the brain. Cortical damage may lead to impairments in memory, language, and executive functions while subcortical damage can impact movement, coordination, and other motor functions.
Vascular dementia can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters which are chemical messengers that are key in brain communication. Neurotransmitter imbalances affect cognition, mood, and behaviour, which contribute to the symptoms of vascular dementia.
Vascular dementia can have a very progressive nature which means that brain damage and cognitive decline can worsen over time. As new infarcts or blockages occur, additional areas of the brain are affected, which leads to further cognitive impairment.
Vascular dementia can have a significant impact on an individual’s walking ability. This is due to the brain damage it causes, especially in the areas of the brain that manages motor control and coordination. Individuals with vascular dementia may experience various changes in their walking patterns, known as gait disturbances. These can include a slower mobility, shorter steps, and an uneven stride. Also, initiating movement may become more challenging, and individuals can appear hesitant while walking.
Below are more issues vascular dementia causes in regard to walking:
Walking impairment can be a potential predictor of vascular dementia. Studies have found that gait disturbances and walking difficulties can precede the onset of cognitive decline and vascular dementia. Changes in gait have been identified as early signs that may indicate the presence of vascular dementia.
While it's important to note that while walking impairment can be an indicator, it is not a definitive diagnostic tool for vascular dementia. A comprehensive evaluation by medical professionals, including neuroimaging and cognitive assessments, is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Nevertheless, early recognition and monitoring of walking difficulties can help identify those at risk and allow for intervention and management of the condition.
Individuals with vascular dementia can work on improving their walking ability via various strategies and interventions. Here are some approaches that can help loved ones:
In conclusion, vascular dementia can have a significant impact on an individual's walking ability. The damage caused by reduced blood flow to the brain can result in gait changes, balance and coordination problems, muscle weakness and stiffness, difficulty with directional changes, reduced stride length and speed and altered arm swing.
These impairments can lead to a slower walking pace, unsteadiness and an increased risk of falling. However, there are strategies to help improve the walking ability of individuals with vascular dementia.
If you need any more information or some guidance, head to our help and advice section where you’ll find support from highly-qualified occupational therapists. Alternatively, you can contact us to speak to a member of our team.
By signing up you consent to us using your email address in accordance with our privacy policy.