Young Onset Dementia

• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of young onset dementia, accounting for around one-third of all cases.

• Other common types include vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia, and alcohol-related brain damage or brain injury.

• Around 1 in 5 people with young onset dementia have a rarer form of the condition, such as posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) or primary progressive aphasia (PPA).

• Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease can also cause dementia in younger people.

• Changes in thinking and communication, such as finding it harder to solve problems, make decisions, or express thoughts clearly.

• Confusion about time or place, for example getting up in the night thinking it’s time for work.

• Difficulty finding the right words or names for everyday objects, and sometimes speaking more hesitantly.

• Changes in personality or behaviour, including acting differently from usual or responding to situations in new ways.

• Loss of motivation or interest in activities that used to be enjoyable.

• Changes in mood, such as feeling anxious, low, or irritable.

• Physical changes, which may include problems with balance, mobility, or vision, sometimes leading to falls.

Work and dementia

• A diagnosis of dementia doesn’t always mean stopping work. Many people continue in their jobs for several years after being diagnosed.

• Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must make reasonable adjustments to support employees living with dementia. This might include longer breaks, a quieter workspace, or flexible working arrangements.

Finances

• The Citizens Advice website offers clear guidance on the benefits and financial support available for people living with dementia and their carers.

Staying active and social

• Keeping connected with friends, family and colleagues can make a big difference. Regular conversations not only support the person living with dementia but also help others better understand and adapt to the condition.

• Avoid drinking too much alcohol: keeping within recommended limits can help protect your brain health.

• Stay socially active: spending time with others can boost wellbeing and keep your mind engaged.

• Get enough vitamin D: either through sunlight, diet, or supplements if recommended.

• Look after your hearing: if you have hearing loss, wearing hearing aids can make a real difference.

• Live a healthy lifestyle: regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and diabetes, which are linked to dementia.