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What is younger onset dementia? -

Young onset dementia, also referred to as early onset dementia, is used to describe any form of dementia that develops in people usually between 30 to 65 years of age.

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Effects of dementia -

Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a general term used to describe a degeneration of the brain that causes a progressive decline in people's ability to think, reason, communicate, and remember.

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Consequences of dementia -

The consequences of such a diagnosis can be devasting for a younger person because they are more likely to be employed full time, raising a family, and financially responsible for their own welfare as well as that of others.

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Recognizing the condition -

Early signs of young onset dementia are not always recognized and may be attributed to other causes. Furthermore, symptoms of the condition are similar to other types of dementia in many ways, no matter what age they start.

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Signs and symptoms -

Signs and symptoms of young onset dementia feature a number of indicators. These include memory loss that interferes with everyday routine, particularly newly learned information or important dates.

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Signs and symptoms -

Confusion, for example asking for the same information again and again, can be indicative of the condition.

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Signs and symptoms -

Difficulty performing familiar tasks and trouble solving basic problems, anything from threading a needle to following a recipe, are early symptoms of young onset dementia.

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Signs and symptoms -

Repetitive behavior, endlessly clicking a retractable pen for example, serves as a red flag that something is amiss.

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Signs and symptoms -

Withdrawing from friends and family, and from work and social situations, is often an indicator that the condition has taken hold.

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Signs and symptoms -

Losing the ability to think clearly or make judgments, such as trouble joining conversations or finding the right word for something, are also potential symptoms of young onset dementia.

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Signs and symptoms -

In fact, speech difficulties and language problems are recognized as being associated with the disorder.

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Advanced signs and symptoms -

As the condition progresses, those with young onset dementia start displaying noticeable changes in behavior, acting in odd ways and making less sense.

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Advanced signs and symptoms -

Later symptoms also include severe mood swings and erratic conduct.

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Advanced signs and symptoms -

A deepening confusion about time, place, and life events envelopes those suffering the advanced stages of the condition.

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Advanced signs and symptoms -

Unwarranted suspicions about friends, family, or caregivers may surface, further distancing the individual from loved ones and people there to help.

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Advanced signs and symptoms -

Memory loss will become more noticeable, coupled with poor judgment and a greater sense of confusion.

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What causes young onset dementia? -

Many different types of dementia can affect younger people. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of the disorder in this age bracket.

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What causes young onset dementia? -

Other causes of young onset dementia include vascular dementia, defined as a problem with blood flow to the brain. 

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What causes young onset dementia? -

Frontotemporal dementia, or the deterioration to the front part of the brain, is another medical condition known to promote the onset of the disorder.

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What causes young onset dementia? -

Huntington's disease has been identified as a precursor to young onset dementia. The disease, an inherited condition, causes nerve cells in the brain to decay over time.

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What causes young onset dementia? -

And multiple sclerosis, a disease of the central nervous system, can be another cause of dementia in younger people.

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When should I see a doctor? -

The symptoms described here need to be checked by a physician as a matter of course. But anyone who suspects they have young onset dementia should see their doctor as soon as possible.

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Early diagnosis -

An early diagnosis is vital in that it allows for advanced planning and rapid access to support, information, and possibly medication.

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Medication options -

There is currently no cure for young onset dementia. However, medication can help some people maintain their mental function, control behavior, and slow the progress of the disease. This option should be discussed at length with your healthcare provider.

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Planning for the future -

Ultimately, it's about managing the condition and planning for the future. The needs of people affected by young onset dementia are wide ranging and need to be addressed sooner rather than later.

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Understanding the condition -

Those affected by young onset dementia need to be made aware of their condition, and how it will impact their lives and that of their families and friends. This advice should come from health and social care professionals.

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Work out a support plan -

Ideally, patients should identify a healthcare provider who specializes in this particular type of dementia, someone who can work on a support plan to help all those involved.

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Health insurance -

Clarifying and if necessary adjusting health insurance coverage, and getting all your important documents in order, is essential in case your health takes a turn for the worse.

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Financial affairs -

Other things to think about include making sure your finances are in order. If you've been diagnosed with dementia, the day will come when you're no longer able to look after your financial affairs. It may be time to make someone your power of attorney, including for decisions involving medical care.

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Keep active -

Meanwhile, looking after yourself both mentally and physically is important in maintaining a positive outlook on life. Exercising regularly can help keep body and mind as healthy as possible.

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Reduce stress levels -

By extension, using relaxation methods to reduce stress is highly recommended. Practicing yoga is especially beneficial.

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Exercise the brain -

Cognitive exercise helps boost and maintain brain function. Playing memory card games, practicing crossword puzzles, completing jigsaw puzzles, or indulging in a board game of strategic skill such as chess are all good ideas.

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Eat properly -

Follow a healthy diet. Think lots of green leafy vegetables, berries, whole grains, beans, nuts, and one or more weekly servings of fish.

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Stay connected -

Importantly, don't be a stranger. Keep connected to others. Consider joining a support group. Support groups can provide comfort and practical assistance for those living with the condition, as well as their relatives and friends.

Sources: (Johns Hopkins Medicine) (Dementia UK) (Alzheimer's Association) 

See also: Visual agnosia: when your brain doesn't process what you see

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