Vascular dementia is caused by conditions such as stroke that disrupt blood flow to the brain and lead to problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. Vascular dementia is the second most common dementia diagnosis, after Alzheimer’s disease, and can occur alone or alongside another form of dementia.

Vascular dementia is caused by conditions that damage blood vessels in the brain and interrupt the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. In the research community, these conditions are known as vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). The brains of people with vascular dementia often show evidence of prior strokes, thickening blood vessel walls, and thinning white matter — the brain’s connecting “wires” that relay messages between regions.

Not everyone who has had a stroke will develop vascular dementia. A person’s risk for dementia after stroke depends on the size and number of strokes and the brain regions affected. Vascular dementia can also result from other conditions that impede blood flow and delivery of oxygen to the brain, such as narrowing of the arteries.

High blood pressure, problems with the heartbeat’s rhythm, diabetes, and high cholesterol can increase a person’s risk of vascular dementia. By controlling or managing risk factors, you may lower your chance of developing cognitive impairment and dementia.

Symptoms of vascular dementia can appear suddenly and may progress slowly over time. Symptoms often look similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease, but memory loss is more prominent in Alzheimer’s, whereas problems with organization, attention, and problem-solving may be more obvious in vascular dementia.

People with vascular dementia may experience:

Difficulty performing tasks that used to be easy, such as paying bills

Trouble following instructions or learning new information and routines

Forgetting current or past events

Misplacing items

Getting lost on familiar routes

Problems with language, such as finding the right word or using the wrong word

Changes in sleep patterns

Difficulty reading and writing

Loss of interest in things or people

Changes in personality, behavior, and mood, such as depression, agitation, and anger

Hallucinations or delusions (believing something is real that is not)

Poor judgment and loss of ability to perceive danger

Symptoms may depend on the size, location, and number of damaged areas of the brain.

To diagnose vascular dementia, a doctor may ask about problems with daily activities, conduct memory or thinking tests, and speak with someone who knows the person well to see if symptoms of dementia are present. Medical history, lifestyle, and brain imaging tests are often used to help determine whether vascular dementia is the cause of symptoms.

No treatments are available to reverse brain damage that has been caused by a stroke. Treatment for vascular dementia focuses on preventing future strokes. Medications to prevent strokes, such as blood thinners, may help decrease the risk of further damage to the brain. Medications that help treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease might benefit people with early vascular dementia. A doctor may also recommend treating risk factors, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, through medications and lifestyle changes.

A healthy lifestyle is important to help reduce risk factors of vascular dementia. This includes eating well, limiting alcohol, not smoking, exercising, and managing stress.

If you are concerned about vascular dementia symptoms, talk with your doctor. If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed, explore the resources on this website and linked below to find out more about the disease, care, support, and research.

Getting enough sleep helps you stay healthy and alert. But, many older people don’t sleep well. If you’re always sleepy or you find it hard to get enough sleep at night, it may be time to see a doctor. Waking up every day feeling tired is a sign that you are not getting the rest you need.

Older adults need about the same amount of sleep as all adults—7 to 9 hours each night. But, older people tend to go to sleep earlier and get up earlier than they did when they were younger.

There are many reasons why older people may not get enough sleep at night. Feeling sick or being in pain can make it hard to sleep. Some medicines can keep you awake.

Being older doesn’t mean you have to be tired all the time. You can do many things to help you get a good night’s sleep. Here are some ideas:

Follow a regular sleep schedule. Go to sleep and get up at the same time each day, even on weekends or when you are traveling.

Avoid napping in the late afternoon or evening, if you can. Naps may keep you awake at night.

Develop a bedtime routine. Take time to relax before bedtime each night. Some people read a book, listen to soothing music, or soak in a warm bath.

Try not to watch television or use your computer, cell phone, or tablet in the bedroom. The light from these devices may make it difficult for you to fall asleep. And alarming or unsettling shows or movies, like horror movies, may keep you awake.

Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature, not too hot or too cold, and as quiet as possible.

Use low lighting in the evenings and as you prepare for bed.

Exercise at regular times each day but not within 3 hours of your bedtime.

Avoid eating large meals close to bedtime—they can keep you awake.

Stay away from caffeine late in the day. Caffeine (found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate) can keep you awake.

Remember—alcohol won’t help you sleep. Even small amounts make it harder to stay asleep.

Insomnia Is Common in Older Adults

Some older adults who have trouble sleeping may use over-the-counter sleep aids. Others may use prescription medicines to help them sleep. These medicines may help when used for a short time. But remember, medicines aren’t a cure for insomnia.

People with restless legs syndrome, or RLS, feel like there is tingling, crawling, or pins and needles in one or both legs. This feeling is worse at night. See your doctor for more information about medicines to treat RLS.

Periodic limb movement disorder, or PLMD, causes people to jerk and kick their legs every 20 to 40 seconds during sleep. Medication, warm baths, exercise, and relaxation exercises can help.

Rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep behavior disorder is another condition that may make it harder to get a good night’s sleep. During normal REM sleep, your muscles cannot move, so your body stays still. But, if you have REM sleep behavior disorder, your muscles can move and your sleep is disrupted.

Some people find that relaxing their bodies puts them to sleep. One way to do this is to imagine your toes are completely relaxed, then your feet, and then your ankles are completely relaxed. Work your way up the rest of your body, section by section. You may drift off to sleep before getting to the top of your head.

After turning off the light, give yourself about 20 minutes to fall asleep. If you’re still awake and not drowsy, get out of bed. When you feel sleepy, go back to bed.

by NIH

Deciding to become physically active can be one of the best things you can do for your health. Exercise and physical activity are not only great for your mental and physical health, but they can help keep you independent as you age. Now, let’s talk about getting started.

How Much Activity Do Older Adults Need?

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (PDF, 14.5M) you should do at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, like brisk walking or fast dancing. Being active at least 3 days a week is best, but doing anything is better than doing nothing at all. You should also do muscle-strengthening activities, like lifting weights or doing sit-ups, at least 2 days a week. The Physical Activity Guidelines also recommend that as part of your weekly physical activity you combine multiple components of exercises. For example, try balance training as well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. If you prefer vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (like running), aim for at least 75 minutes a week.

How Older Adults Can Get Started with Exercise

Exercise and physical activity are great for your mental and physical health and help keep you independent as you age. Here are a few things you may want to keep in mind when beginning to exercise.

Start Slowly When Beginning Exercise

The key to being successful and safe when beginning a physical activity routine is to build slowly from your current fitness level. Over-exercising can cause injury, which may lead to quitting. A steady rate of progress is the best approach.

To play it safe and reduce your risk of injury:

Begin your exercise program slowly with low-intensity exercises.

Warm up before exercising and cool down afterward.

Pay attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

Drink water before, during, and after your workout session, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Play catch, kickball, basketball, or soccer.

Wear appropriate fitness clothes and shoes for your activity.

If you have specific health conditions, discuss your exercise and physical activity plan with your health care provider.

Even the best intentions to exercise can fall by the wayside when obstacles and challenges get in the way. However, there are ways to get past them! Check out these tips for overcoming exercise barriers and fitting exercise into your routine.

Exercise first thing in the morning. You are more likely to exercise if it’s a convenient part of your day. Try combining physical activity with a daily task you already do.

Keep it fun and interesting. Do things you enjoy and try new activities to keep things exciting.

Fit physical activity into your budget using items you already have at home. Exercise doesn’t have to be expensive. Wear comfortable, non-skid shoes for walking and use items you already have, like soup cans or water bottles, for strength exercises.

Give yourself a boost of energy. Regular, moderate physical activity can help manage stress, reduce fatigue, and increase your energy and stamina.

Making healthy food choices is a smart thing to do — no matter how old you are! Your body changes through your 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond. Food provides nutrients you need as you age. Use these tips to choose foods and beverages for better health at each stage of life.

1. Drink plenty of liquids

With age, you may lose some of your sense of thirst. Drink water often. Low-fat or fat-free milk or 100% juice also helps you stay hydrated. Limit beverages that have lots of added sugars or salt. Learn which liquids are healthier choices.

2. Make eating a social event

Meals are more enjoyable when you eat with others. Invite a friend to join you or take part in a potluck at least twice a week. A senior center or place of worship may offer meals that are shared with others. There are many ways to make mealtimes pleasing.

3. Plan healthy meals

Find trusted nutrition information from ChooseMyPlate.gov and the National Institute on Aging. Get advice on what to eat, how much to eat, and which foods to choose, all based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Find sensible, flexible ways to choose and prepare tasty meals so you can eat foods you need.

4. Know how much to eat

Learn to recognize how much to eat so you can control portion size. When eating out, pack part of your meal to eat later. One restaurant dish might be enough for two meals or more.

5. Include a variety of different colored, flavored, and textured vegetables. Most vegetables are a low-calorie source of nutrients. Vegetables are also a good source of fiber.

6. Eat for your teeth and gums

Many people find that their teeth and gums change as they age. People with dental problems sometimes find it hard to chew fruits, vegetables, or meats. Don’t miss out on needed nutrients! Eating softer foods can help. Try cooked or canned foods like unsweetened fruit, low-sodium soups, or canned tuna.

7. Use herbs and spices

Foods may seem to lose their flavor as you age. If favorite dishes taste different, it may not be the cook! Maybe your sense of smell, sense of taste, or both have changed. Medicines may also change how foods taste. Add flavor to your meals with herbs and spices.

8. Keep food safe

Don’t take a chance with your health. A food-related illness can be life threatening for an older person. Throw out food that might not be safe. Avoid certain foods that are always risky for an older person, such as unpasteurized dairy foods. Other foods can be harmful to you when they are raw or undercooked, such as eggs, sprouts, fish, shellfish, meat, or poultry.

9. Read the Nutrition Facts label

Make the right choices when buying food. Pay attention to important nutrients to know as well as calories, fats, sodium, and the rest of the Nutrition Facts label. Ask your doctor if there are ingredients and nutrients you might need to limit or to increase.

10. Ask your doctor about vitamins or supplements

Food is the best way to get nutrients you need. Should you take vitamins or other pills or powders with herbs and minerals? These are called dietary supplements. Your doctor will know if you need them. More may not be better. Some can interfere with your medicines or affect your medical conditions.

by Carol Leish

By gaining knowledge of what’s available within Ventura County to deal with senior fraud, you will be more empowered to stop it. By using various tools, you’ll be better able to protect yourselves.

According to, Carey Aldava, Manager of Ventura County Adult Protective Services Program, “Reports received on fraud have not substantially increased in our county due to the pandemic. Perhaps this is because many agencies that serve seniors and adults with disabilities in the community have not fully reopened to offer services, creating less of an opportunity to encounter victims of scams and fraud.

“Regarding percentages countywide from 2015-2020, we (Adult Protective Services), confirmed 1,928 reports of financial abuse against elders (31% of all financial abuse cases). Of these cases, 57% were scams. So far, in 2021, we have confirmed 237 reports of financial abuse against elders (37% of all financial abuse cases), with 60% being related to scams.”

“Tools to deal with others,” according to Aldava, include: 1) Shredding all receipts with your credit card number on it; 2) Getting involved in the community and not isolating yourself; 3) Telling solicitors to provide their information in writing; 4) Obtaining a salesperson’s name, business identity, telephone number, street address, mailing address, and business license number before transacting business; 5) Signing up for the ‘Do Not Call Registry’ at: 888-382-1222.; 6) Using direct deposit for benefit checks; and, 7) Never giving your credit card, banking, social security, Medicare, or other personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call.”

Debbie Deem, a retired victim’s specialist for the FBI, runs a monthly meeting (Financial Abuse Specialist Team: FAST), that deals with issues related to various topics, such as: elder abuse; financial exploitation; and, phone fraud. She said, “We have a wide variety of people, which includes, bankers, lawyers, Ombudsman, and the Area Agency on Aging offering us resources and advice at our meetings.

“Ventura County Adult Protective Services,” according to Dean, “has a 24 Hr. Abuse Hotline: (805) 654-3200. The Adult Protective Services agency helps elder adults (65 years and older) and dependent adults (18-64 who are disabled), when these adults are unable to meet their own needs, or are victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation. The County Adult Protective Services agency investigate reports of abuse of elder and dependent adults. Look at: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/.”

In regards to the Federal Trade Commission’s Do Not Call Registry, Dean said, “look at: https://www.donotcall.gov/ and go to, ‘more information-answers basic questions. Or, call: 1-888-382-1222. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and AARP have great info on fraud crimes at: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts/; also: https/www.consumrer-ftc.gov/blog2020/10/how-spot-avoid-and-report-imposter-scams.”

“Regarding getting help, support and resources and help in where to report fraud,” according to Dean, call the National Elder Fraud Hotline (age 60 or older) at: 1-833-372-8311. And, for more information, got to: https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/stop-elder-fraud/providing-help-restoring-hope.

“And, if you are concerned about being a victim , you can call the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Fraud Hotline in Ventura (Headquarters) at: (805) 654-2145; in Ojai at: (805) 477-7050; in Camarillo at: (805) 388-5175; or, in Fillmore at: (805) 477-7020.”

Thus, with knowledge, you will gain power and restore your hope in being better able to cope with/avoid the possibilities of senior fraud.

by Jennifer Bell

Living in an independent senior living community and looking for some adventure? Now is a great time to get out and see the country. The U.S is widely diverse and has so many great destinations for seniors to visit.

1. Alaska

Alaska is like no other place in the US. From glaciers to the untamed wilderness, Alaska has it all. The best part is you can experience the best sights on an Alaskan cruise. Cruises allow you to enjoy the creature comforts of a hotel with views of glaciers, waterfalls, stunning coastline, and whales. For those that stay inland, there are 17 national parks for nature hiking and tours.

2. Sedona, Arizona

A bit further south than Alaska, you can find yourself in Sedona, Arizona, just a two-hour drive from Phoenix. Sedona has a great mild climate and is a great place to visit for any lifestyle. You can sightsee the amazing red rocks or relax at one of the spas or resorts. Its location offers excellent wilderness opportunities like hot air balloon rides, star gazing, and Jeep tours.

3. Key West, Florida

Want a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the country? Then Key West should be on your list. There are plenty of sights to see for the inner history buff, like the Hemmingway home and the Southernmost Point of the Continental US. There’s also plenty of opportunities to relax, and take in the sunsets too.

4. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is one of the oldest state capitals in the US. It boasts opportunities in and out of the city, from unique museums to golf. In this walkable city, you can experience a variety of art galleries and museums. The mild climate, much like Sedona’s, is one of the main benefits of the city. Live music and Turquoise are also big here and support the local economy.

5. U.S National Parks

Seniors have access to a lifetime pass to the U.S national parks for just $80 or $20 annually. This will grant you access to unique locations like The Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, to name a few. A big plus is that traveling companions get in free with you, up to three adults.

6. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg and the surrounding areas like Jamestown are a must-see for any history fan. The living museum of Colonial Williamsburg transports you back in time to see how the colonists lived. The museum is staffed with historical characters to immerse you in the setting. The area is excellent for shopping and relaxing, among other things like golf are all nearby.

7. Hawaii

Hawaii is a beautiful tropical state full of opportunities for active seniors. From volcanoes and natural formations, there are a lot of opportunities to get out and explore. Historical landmarks like pearl harbor and the USS Arizona are also popular tourist attractions. If you want a fun, relaxing option, there are plenty of beachfront resorts for you to relax and put your feet up at.

Jennifer Bell is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.

With live music filling the air, attendees sampled chili from six competitors.

On Friday afternoon, July 16, residents and staff of Aegis Living Ventura, a local assisted living and memory care community, gathered with partners, friends, and family members for a chili cook-off to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association and their Longest Day initiative.

The Longest Day is a yearly fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association, centered on the summer solstice and longest day of the year on June 20. Supporters from around the globe ban together to raise funds at events like the chili cook-off. Proceeds from the Aegis Living event went directly to support the Association’s California Central Coast Chapter.

“Today was a proud moment for our community,” shared Sam EL-Rabaa, Aegis Living Ventura’s general manager. “To see the outpouring of support for the Alzheimer’ Association from our community partners, families, residents, and public was so uplifting, but the best part was seeing how much residents were enjoying themselves.”

With live music filling the air, attendees sampled chili from six competitors: Ventura Post Acute, Coastal View Health Care, Assisted Home Health and Hospice, Mission Home Health and Hospice, Oakhurst Hospice, and Aegis Living. Each competitor decorated their own table and tent, and many residents got into the spirit, wearing festive costumes and dancing to the music.

“We had a great turnout today,” said Denise Tyner, chili competitor from Ventura Post Acute. “We’re proud to be associated with this event and the attention it brings to the Alzheimer’s Association.”

Assisted Home Health and Hospice took home the “Best Chili” trophy, with Aegis Living’s Mary Sawyer snagging the “Best Presentation” award thanks to her creative table décor.

The event was a rousing success. The initial fundraising goal of $500 was almost doubled by the end of the day, with nearly $1,000 raised for the Alzheimer’s Association. Plans are already underway to make the chili cook-off into an annual event.

“Today was amazing,” said Sawyer. “It was a day of celebrating not just the fact that we are getting back to normal, but also celebrating those residents living with Alzheimer’s and offering support to our families.”

All in attendance, especially Aegis Living residents, couldn’t have been happier to be out and about, and for such a great cause.

A caregiver, sometimes referred to as a caretaker, refers to anyone who provides care for another person. Millions of people living in the United States take care of a friend or family member with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Sometimes caregivers live with the person or nearby, other times they live far away. For many families, caring for a person with dementia isn’t just one person’s job, but the role of many people who share tasks and responsibilities. No matter what kind of caregiver you are, taking care of another person can be overwhelming at times. These tips and suggestions may help with everyday care and tasks.

Early on in Alzheimer’s and related dementias, people experience changes in thinking, remembering, and reasoning in a way that affects daily life and activities. Eventually, people with these diseases will need more help with simple, everyday tasks. This may include bathing, grooming, and dressing. It may be upsetting to the person to need help with such personal activities. Here are a few tips to consider early on and as the disease progresses:

Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same time each day.

Help the person write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar.

Plan activities that the person enjoys and try to do them at the same time each day.

Consider a system or reminders for helping those who must take medications regularly.

When dressing or bathing, allow the person to do as much as possible.

Buy loose-fitting, comfortable, easy-to-use clothing, such as clothes with elastic waistbands, fabric fasteners, or large zipper pulls instead of shoelaces, buttons, or buckles.

Use a sturdy shower chair to support a person who is unsteady and to prevent falls. You can buy shower chairs at drug stores and medical supply stores.

Be gentle and respectful. Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step while you help them bathe or get dressed.

Serve meals in a consistent, familiar place and give the person enough time to eat.

Communication can be hard for people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias because they have trouble remembering things. They also can become agitated and anxious, even angry. In some forms of dementia, language abilities are affected such that people have trouble finding the right words or have difficulty speaking. You may feel frustrated or impatient, but it is important to understand that the disease is causing the change in communication skills. To help make communication easier, you can:

Reassure the person. Speak calmly. Listen to his or her concerns and frustrations. Try to show that you understand if the person is angry or fearful.

Allow the person to keep as much control in his or her life as possible.

Respect the person’s personal space.

Build quiet times into the day, along with activities.

Keep well-loved objects and photographs around the house to help the person feel more secure.

Remind the person who you are if he or she doesn’t remember, but try not to say, “Don’t you remember?”

Encourage a two-way conversation for as long as possible.

Try distracting the person with an activity, such as a familiar book or photo album, if you are having trouble communicating with words.

Share any symptoms you have

A symptom is evidence of a disease or disorder in the body. Examples of symptoms include pain, fever, a lump or bump, unexplained weight loss or gain, or having a hard time sleeping.

Be clear and concise when describing your symptoms. Your description helps the doctor identify the problem. A physical exam and medical tests provide valuable information, but your symptoms point the doctor in the right direction.

Your doctor will ask when your symptoms started, what time of day they happen, how long they last (seconds? days?), how often they occur, if they seem to be getting worse or better, and if they keep you from going out or doing your usual activities.

Take the time to make some notes about your symptoms before you call or visit the doctor. Worrying about your symptoms is not a sign of weakness. Being honest about what you are experiencing doesn’t mean that you are complaining. The doctor needs to know how you feel.

To provide the best care, your doctor must understand you as a person and know what your life is like. The doctor may ask about where you live, what you eat, how you sleep, what you do each day, what activities you enjoy, what your sex life is like, and if you smoke or drink. Be open and honest with your doctor. It will help him or her to understand your medical conditions fully and recommend the best treatment choices for you.

Your health has a big impact on other parts of your life. Your doctor may ask you how your life is going. This isn’t being impolite or nosy. Information about what’s happening in your life may be useful medically. Let the doctor know about any major changes or stresses in your life, such as a divorce or the death of a loved one. You don’t have to go into detail; you may want to say something like: “It might be helpful for you to know that my sister passed away since my last visit with you,” or “I recently had to sell my home and move in with my daughter.”

The coronavirus pandemic and physical distancing requirements can also bring about feelings of loneliness and social isolation. These feelings are associated with higher risk for depression, anxiety, and heart disease. It is important to let your doctor know when these feelings occur and how often.

You may have some concerns or wishes about your care if you become seriously ill. If you have questions about what choices you have, ask your doctor. You can specify your desires through legal documents called advance directives. In general, the best time to talk with your doctor about these issues is while you are still relatively healthy. Medicare and private health insurance may cover these discussions with your doctor. One way to bring up the subject is to say: “I’m worried about what would happen in the hospital if I were very sick and not likely to get better. Can you tell me what generally happens in that case?