Neurological disorders and injuries

Early-Onset or Young-Onset Dementia

Dementia symptoms appearing before age 65, impacting memory, thinking, and daily life.
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About

Early-onset or young-onset dementia refers to dementia symptoms that appear before the age of 65. It can affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and daily functioning, often during a person’s working years. This can have a significant impact on employment and family life.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Declining memory and concentration
  • Difficulty managing workloads or multi-tasking
  • Changes in mood, communication, or personality
  • Challenges with new tasks or adapting to change
  • Stress or confusion in fast-paced environments
  • Potential stigma or misunderstanding at work

Practitioner Help

  • Help identify tasks that suit current strengths
  • Support communication with the employer around adjustments
  • Recommend memory aids or simplified routines
  • Encourage pacing strategies to reduce fatigue
  • Link the participant with counselling and support services

Common Accommodations

  • Written instructions and visual reminders
  • Clear, predictable routines and task lists
  • Flexible work hours or part-time schedules
  • Extra time for reading or writing tasks
  • A quiet or low-sensory workspace
  • Job coaching or ongoing support
View more on enableDex

Notes

Early-onset dementia can be especially distressing because it often affects people during their careers and while they have caregiving responsibilities. Timely diagnosis and proactive planning can help maintain employment for as long as possible with dignity and support.

World Alzheimer's Day is September 21

Resources

  • Younger onset dementia | Dementia Australia
  • Dementia | healthdirect
  • Younger or early onset dementia - symptoms and planning | healthdirect
  • Younger onset dementia: the facts | Dementia Australia
Neurological disorders and injuries

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