laylasmom,

I am 66 and was diagnosed with white matter disease ( chronic microvascular ischemic disease) a few years ago. Did you actually see your MRI or just the narrative? Did it identify the locations of the lesions? Based on the location of the lesions you may be able to identify the areas of the brain affected and their corresponding functions. Also, in my case, the same process that causes the white matter disease can cause lacunar strokes. While these are usually asymptomatic (silent strokes) the effects can be cumulative. You might want to ask your doctor if your MRI also shows evidence of these.

It is important to identify whether you have ischemic disease or demyelination. If you have the former then there is no treatment but lifestyle changes may slow the progression. If it is the latter then it could be MS which does have drugs available to help manage the disease.

Try to keep from stressing out and enjoy life to the fullest (I know, easier said than done). You never know what's around the bend. Do as much as you can for as long as you can. Don't miss out on life, whatever the diagnosis, you may have many years to work on that bucket list.