Fact 8. The Perplexing Symptom: Mood and Behavior Changes in VaD
One often overlooked aspect of Vascular Dementia is the changes in mood and behavior that accompany the condition. While cognitive symptoms often take center stage, these emotional changes form an essential part of the VaD narrative.
Depression and apathy are commonly reported in individuals with VaD. This lack of interest or emotion can often be misunderstood or mistaken for disinterest. However, it’s a symptom of the disease, affecting the person’s motivation and engagement with their surroundings.
Similarly, individuals with VaD may exhibit personality changes. They might seem different from their usual self, perhaps more irritable or withdrawn. These shifts can be disconcerting for loved ones but are part of the condition’s impact on the brain.
Understanding these mood and behavior changes is crucial, not just for diagnosis but also for the individual’s care and support. It’s a reminder that Vascular Dementia isn’t just about memory loss or cognitive decline – it affects the person’s emotional landscape, shaping their interactions and experiences in significant ways. (8)
