ICVD 2015 will try to  identify specific biological and psychological markers of vascular cognitive impairment, and also the genetic factors involved. The overlap with Alzheimer's disease will be a central issue, as will be the white matter changes frequently seen in dementia. The neuropathology features of dementia, experimental animal models, and new understanding of pathogenic mechanisms, particularly inflammation, will all be highlighted at the congress. And while we are still lacking effective therapies for dementia in general, several new approaches will be presented and discussed regarding prevention of cognitive impairment and symptomatic therapy of the cognitive and behavioral manifestations