Memory Loss from Poor Blood Flow? What You Should Know About Vascular Dementia

When most people think of memory loss, they imagine Alzheimer’s disease. But not all dementia starts in the brain—sometimes, it starts in the heart.

Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia, and it’s caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. The result? Memory loss, confusion, difficulty focusing, and changes in mood or movement.

Understanding the link between heart health and brain function is key to catching the signs early and getting the right care.

What Is Vascular Dementia?

Vascular dementia happens when brain cells are deprived of oxygen due to damaged or blocked blood vessels. It can develop suddenly after a stroke or gradually from chronic heart and circulation problems.

Common Types:

• Multi-infarct dementia – Caused by multiple small strokes over time
• Mixed dementia – A combination of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

How Poor Blood Flow Leads to Memory Loss

Your brain uses 20% of your body’s oxygen supply. When blood vessels can’t deliver enough oxygen, brain cells weaken and die—especially in areas that manage memory, attention, and decision-making.

Vascular damage can be caused by:

• Stroke or mini-strokes (TIAs)
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle

A long-term study from Johns Hopkins found that people with heart disease risk factors in midlife were more likely to develop dementia later on.

Protecting your heart helps protect your memory.

Early Signs of Vascular Dementia

Memory problems from vascular dementia often begin subtly and worsen over time. You or a loved one may notice:

• Trouble remembering recent conversations or events
• Difficulty focusing or planning
• Slower thinking and processing
• Mood swings or depression
• Problems with walking or balance

Symptoms may appear suddenly after a stroke, or progress gradually with underlying heart or blood vessel problems.

Can You Treat Vascular Dementia?

There’s no cure, but early treatment can help slow the progression. The most effective care focuses on improving blood flow and managing heart disease.

Treatment may include:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol medications
• Diabetes control
• Blood thinners if there’s a stroke history
• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, quitting smoking)
• Cognitive therapy and memory support

How to Lower Your Risk

You can take action now to protect your memory. Focus on heart-healthy habits like:

• Eating a Mediterranean-style diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish)
• Exercising at least 30 minutes most days
• Managing stress
• Controlling blood pressure and sugar levels
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol

Even small changes can make a big difference over time.

Don’t Ignore Memory Loss—Talk to a Doctor

If you or a loved one is experiencing memory changes, confusion, or difficulty concentrating, talk to your doctor. It may be more than just “getting older.” Catching vascular dementia early can slow its impact and improve quality of life.

Get Support for Memory Loss at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, our team helps you connect the dots between memory loss, stroke risk, and heart health. We provide personalized care plans, monitor cognitive symptoms, and work closely with cardiologists and neurologists when needed.

Let’s protect your memory—starting today with one appointment!