Young-onset Dementia (YOD), also referred to as Early Onset Dementia, is defined as dementia diagnosed before the age of 65. While dementia is more common in older adults, approximately 5% to 9% of all dementia cases are considered young onset. It can affect individuals in their 30s, 40s, 50s and early 60s.
YOD is not a single disease, but a syndrome caused by a variety of underlying conditions. Common causes include:
• Alzheimer’s disease: the most common cause, even in younger adults
• Frontotemporal dementia (FTD): more prevalent in younger populations than in late-onset cases
• Vascular dementia: due to reduced blood flow to the brain
• Lewy body dementia: characterised by visual hallucinations and motor symptoms
• Alcohol-related dementia, such as Korsakoff syndrome
• Genetic conditions: certain inherited forms can appear earlier in life
The symptoms may differ slightly from late-onset dementia and can include:
• Memory problems (especially in Alzheimer’s)
• Behavioral and personality changes (especially in FTD)
• Executive function impairment, such as planning and problem-solving
• Language difficulties
• Motor issues or coordination loss
• Mood changes, such as depression, anxiety and apathy
• Hallucinations or delusions (in Lewy body dementia)
Early symptoms can be misdiagnosed as stress, depression, or relationship issues, especially in younger adults
YOD presents unique challenges due to the younger age of diagnosis, including:
• Employment: many people with YOD are still working, leading to job loss and financial strain
• Family: many are still raising children or supporting elderly parents
• Misdiagnosis/delayed diagnosis: symptoms may be overlooked or attributed to other causes
• Social isolation: peers may not understand or relate
Diagnosis typically involves:
• Clinical interviews and history-taking
• Cognitive and neuropsychological tests
• MRI/CT scans for brain structure
• PET scans (in some cases) to identify Alzheimer’s pathology
• Blood tests to rule out other causes
• Genetic testing, if family history is strong
Timely diagnosis is crucial to access proper care, support and planning resources
There is no cure for YOD, but management strategies include:
• Medication, such as cholinesterase inhibitors for Alzheimer’s
• Therapy, such as:
Occupational therapy
Cognitive stimulation
Counselling and support groups
• Lifestyle adjustments, such as:
More exercise
Nutrition enhancement
Stress management
Specialised dementia services for younger individuals are becoming more available in many countries
• Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support Services: Facilitates wellbeing groups for people living with YOD
• Alzheimer’s Society (UK): Offers tailored resources for YOD
• Dementia UK: Admiral Nurses provide family support
• Young Dementia Network: Advocacy and service improvement
• Rare Dementia Support (UK): Especially for FTD and genetic forms