vascular dementia

[DogsHaveNoButtocks]

My face has been jerking around, and an MRI scan says that I have an increased risk of vascular dementia. I am 68 and very frightened.
There's nothing to be done. Just deal with it.

Sorry to hear that! That must be really shocking news and I didn’t want to read and run.... have you had a follow up to talk about ways you can reduce that risk? All the evidence suggest there are things you can do to try and minimise the chances regardless of where you start (eg already high risk)

It's a risk, not an absolute. Did they give you any suggestions as to how to minimise your actual chances?

OP I'm sorry to hear that. The Alzheimer's Society is a good resource for those affected by all types of dementia, not just AD so worth a look. Also, although a dementia diagnosis or risk is a very big deal, life doesn't just end and there are still good times in life.

My DM (68 like you) was diagnosed with AD two years ago and although there are very tough times we also do still have positive times too. She's only just moved out of her own home and wouldn't have needed to do that if she was a bit closer to us. A family friend was diagnosed with VD around the same time and is still travelling independently etc.

There is LOTS to be done!

I am sorry you had this worrying news but don't be despondent.
All that has changed is that you now know that you have a higher risk of vascular detention - it's a heads up and a chance to make changes to reduce that risk.

A risk is not a verdict.
Nobody can predict what will or will not happen to you.

So, if you smoke, stop.
If you drink too much alcohol, reduce your intake.
Get moving - both physically and mentally.
Make sure your blood pressure and your cholesterol are normal/low.
Formal exercise is great, but an active lifestyle involving as little sitting as possible is vital.
Surround yourself with interesting people and things; do stuff.

Were you given any idea why your face has been jerking??