Last updated:
25th June 2024
Young-onset dementia
When someone develops dementia before turning 65, it's called 'young-onset dementia'.
Dementia can be triggered by a variety of diseases, this is similar for both younger and older people ('late-onset dementia'). However, there are important differences in how dementia presents in younger people. These include the following:
- Young-onset dementia can result from a wider range of diseases.
- Rarer forms of dementia are much more common in younger individuals.
- Memory loss may not be among the initial symptoms for younger people with dementia.
- Problems with movement, walking, coordination, or balance are more likely in young-onset dementia.
- Inheritance (passed on through genes) plays a larger role in young-onset dementia, affecting up to 10% of cases.
- Many younger individuals with dementia do not have any other significant or long-term health issues.
The following organisations websites provide further information about young-onset dementia:
Admiral Nurses
Find out how an Admiral Nurse can support the person living with dementia and the people caring for them by going to the Younger People With Dementia website.
