What are the signs of young-onset dementia?
You might think of dementia as a condition that affects people in later life. But dementia affects younger people too. Young-onset dementia, or early-onset dementia, occurs in people under the age of 65. In this article I look at the symptoms of young-onset dementia, and steps you can take that may help reduce your risk.
What causes early-onset dementia?
Dementia is usually caused by neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s disease. Neurodegenerative diseases damage nerve cells in our brains over time, which can cause a range of symptoms.
We don’t know why some people develop the neurodegenerative diseases that cause dementia. It’s likely to be because of a combination of different things, like genetics and having other health conditions. But there’s also evidence to suggest that for some types of dementia, lifestyle choices like smoking, may increase your risk.
There are some causes of dementia that are more likely to affect younger people. These include:
Younger people are also more likely to have rarer types of dementia, such as genetic types of dementia. This can happen when we inherit genetic changes (mutations) from our parents.
People with learning disabilities are also more likely to get dementia at a younger age. We don’t know exactly why this is, and researchers are working to find out why.
How can you tell if someone has early-onset dementia?
Symptoms of dementia can affect people in different ways. The symptoms of young-onset dementia can be different to those that affect people in later life. People with early-onset dementia might experience:
- behavioural changes
- emotional changes, such as feeling more irritable or anxious than usual
- communication issues, such as difficulty finding the right words and speaking less than usual
- changes in the way they walk (known as gait), such as shuffling or walking at a different speed
How early can you detect dementia?
The first symptoms of early-onset dementia may not affect memory. They can be similar to those caused by other health problems. So it’s not always obvious that someone has early-onset dementia. This can make getting a diagnosis more difficult.
If you’re concerned you might have young-onset dementia, make an appointment with your GP. You might want to bring a loved one with you to the appointment for support.
Your GP will ask you about your family history, and talk to you about the symptoms you’re experiencing. They should send you for blood tests, and following these results they may send you for a scan of your brain.
If you receive a dementia diagnosis, support groups are available in-person or online, that can help you to connect with other people who have young-onset dementia. Counselling services can also be a helpful tool to help you come to terms with a dementia diagnosis.
Can early-onset dementia be treated?
There’s currently no cure for young-onset dementia. But there are different types of treatment available to help you or your loved one manage the symptoms of dementia.
For some types of dementia there are medications available that can help to improve cognitive function, including memory.
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is another type of available treatment. This involves meeting in groups and taking part in quizzes and games that help with memory and brain function.
In some areas, Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy is available. This focuses on developing strategies to support or re-learn skills that may have become difficult.
Family support is also available to offer loved ones information and advice.
How can you prevent dementia?
It may not be possible to prevent young-onset dementia. But, it’s believed that the following could increase your risk of dementia generally:
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
- having overweight or obesity
- being inactive
- having high blood pressure
- having high cholesterol
There’s some research to suggest that other factors can increase your risk of dementia, such as:
- having hearing or vision problems that developed as you got older
- being socially isolated
- having depression
How can I reduce my risk of dementia?
If you’re worried about dementia or would like to take some steps to reduce your risk, you could try the tips below.
- Have your hearing tested at your local hearing test centre. Research has found that having hearing aids fitted if you need them may reduce your risk of dementia.
- Maintain a healthy BMI and lose any excess weight by following a healthy balanced diet.
- Stop smoking if you smoke. The NHS offer a free stop smoking service where you can meet with an expert and attend local support groups.
- Get moving. Make sure to exercise regularly each week.
- Limit your alcohol intake to 14 units a week or less.
- Reduce your cholesterol by eating more fibre and less saturated fat.
- Meet up with friends or loved ones regularly. Or you could try and make some new connections by joining a local club or taking up a new hobby.
- Monitor your blood pressure and seek treatment if it’s high.
- Have your eyes tested regularly and wear glasses if you need them.
- Seek support if you’re experiencing depression. Contact your GP for support and advice.
If you’re worried you or your loved one are experiencing symptoms of early-onset dementia, contact your GP.
You can’t predict when you might want to see a GP, but you can be ready for when you do. Our GP subscriptions are available to anyone over 18 and give you peace of mind, with 15-minute appointments when it suits you at no extra cost.
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