Symptom 3. Trouble with Concentration and Attention
Vascular dementia can also lead to significant difficulties with concentration and attention, often described as a sense of mental ‘fogginess’. This symptom involves a marked decrease in the ability to focus, resulting in reduced productivity and engagement in tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Individuals experiencing this symptom may find it increasingly challenging to focus on detailed tasks. For instance, they may struggle with reading a book, following a complex TV show, or maintaining focus during lengthy conversations. This difficulty with concentration can also affect their ability to follow instructions or stick to a task until completion.
Moreover, they may also exhibit a shortened attention span. Simple chores, such as cleaning or cooking, might be left unfinished as the person quickly loses focus. It’s as if their mind is a television with someone else holding the remote control, flipping through the channels incessantly.
This symptom arises due to decreased blood flow to specific regions of the brain responsible for concentration and attention. As these areas receive less oxygen and nutrients than needed, their function is disrupted, leading to the manifestation of these cognitive difficulties. (3)
