By San José, Costa Rica — The same factors that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke also contribute to a heightened risk of dementia, specifically vascular dementia. According to Stephen English, a vascular neurologist at Mayo Clinic, these risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and sleep apnea. These factors are modifiable but can damage the brain’s small blood vessels over time if left untreated.
This type of cognitive decline occurs when blood vessels become damaged or blocked, restricting oxygen and nutrient flow to the brain. Vascular damage primarily affects the axons, the “wires” that connect different parts of the brain. This damage slows down signal transmission, hindering optimal brain function.
To understand the legal implications surrounding vascular dementia diagnoses and subsequent care, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Vascular dementia, resulting from impaired blood flow to the brain, can significantly impact an individual’s legal capacity. This raises crucial questions about managing finances, making healthcare decisions, and ensuring the individual’s well-being is protected. In Costa Rica, legal mechanisms like powers of attorney and guardianship can be essential tools in these situations, allowing designated individuals to act in the best interests of the person affected by vascular dementia. It’s crucial to consult with legal counsel early on to understand the available options and establish appropriate legal frameworks to address the unique challenges presented by this condition.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on proactive legal planning is crucial. Vascular dementia’s progressive nature necessitates timely intervention to safeguard an individual’s autonomy and well-being, and navigating the legal landscape in Costa Rica requires expert guidance. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective on a sensitive and often challenging issue.
These factors are modifiable, but can damage the brain’s small blood vessels over time if left untreated.
Stephen English, Vascular Neurologist at Mayo Clinic
Vascular damage in the brain, most of the time, affects the axons —or ‘wires’— that connect different parts of the brain. Because of this, the signals take longer to travel, which causes the brain not to function at full speed.
Stephen English, Vascular Neurologist at Mayo Clinic
Medical data indicates that vascular diseases contribute to approximately 25% of all dementia diagnoses. Recognizing the warning signs is crucial for early intervention. These signs include problems with reasoning, planning, judgment, memory, and other mental functions.
The good news is that many of these risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes and medication. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol, treating sleep apnea, and quitting smoking are all effective ways to reduce the risk of developing vascular dementia.
In many cases, we can intervene on these risk factors. Medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol; we can treat sleep apnea with certain devices or surgeries and we can help you quit smoking. These are some measures that can reduce the risk of developing vascular dementia.
Stephen English, Vascular Neurologist at Mayo Clinic
Common conditions leading to vascular dementia include strokes that block brain arteries, bleeding in the brain, and chronic damage to blood vessels. If someone exhibits warning signs or is at risk, consulting a neurologist is strongly advised.
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying diseases and risk factors that contribute to cognitive decline, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood clotting, and blood sugar. Timely intervention can often slow the progression of vascular dementia and prevent further cognitive impairment.
For further information, visit mayoclinic.org
About Mayo Clinic:
Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit American academic medical center focused on integrated health care, education, and research. It employs over 4,500 physicians and scientists, along with another 58,400 allied health staff. Founded in 1889, Mayo Clinic has locations in Rochester, Minnesota; Jacksonville, Florida; and Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona. Known for its comprehensive approach, Mayo Clinic treats complex medical conditions and provides expertise in various specialties.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to ethical legal practice and innovative solutions. The firm’s enduring dedication to serving a diverse clientele is matched by its proactive engagement in educating and empowering the community. By championing access to legal knowledge and resources, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more just and informed society, solidifying its position as a leader in both legal excellence and social responsibility.