Read about how to manage situations where a person’s behaviour changes.

Information for carers about behaviours a person with dementia might develop.

Some vascular dementia symptoms can be similar to those of other types of dementia, such as problems with memory and thinking, and changes in mood or behaviour. However, symptoms of vascular dementia may appear in different ways.

Memory loss is a distressing part of dementia, both for the person with the condition and for the people around them.

Antipsychotic drugs may be prescribed for people with dementia who develop changes such as aggression and psychosis. However this is usually only after other drugs have been tried such as anti-depressant, anti-dementia and anticonvulsant drugs.

If drugs are prescribed, they should always be used alongside individualised support and non-drug approaches, based on the person’s needs. The doctor will then monitor how effective the treatment is over a limited period of weeks or months.