While memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias is most common in people over the age of 65, dementia is becoming more prevalent in younger people, sometimes in their 30s, 40s or 50s.  This is referred to as younger onset. 

The person with dementia under 65 years of age, experiences the same changes in ability as those over 65 years of age.  If you are worried about similar changes (as outlined under the Awareness section of this website), it is important to seek further advice and diagnosis.

Diagnosis

You need to ask your family doctor to refer you to a specialist in your area for an accurate diagnosis.  Please refer to the Awareness Section for steps in diagnosis.

However, some general practitioners may not consider that you have Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia becuase of your age and therefore be reluctant to refer you specialist assistance.  It may help if you contact Alzheimers Auckland, freephone 0800-004-001 so we can help you in this process.

Sharing the Diagnosis

People with younger onset may be reluctant to accept this diagnosis and it is advisable to share this information with someone close to you.  People around you are likely to be aware of changes in your performance and they can offer support in coming to terms with this type of diagnosis.  Talking to others in the same situation might also be beneficial and this can be arranged through Alzheimers Auckland in a confidential and positive environment.

Employment and Financial Matters

You may have children, work and financial commitments.  Problems may arise from unplanned financial loss if you are the major earner in the family.  Seek advice and support about financial matters and legal protection from Alzheimers Auckland, your lawyer or financial advisor.  They will help to plan for reponsibilities that could stress you and impact on your ability to cope.  It is vital that you arrange enduring powers of attorney for both financial and property affairs and those concerning health and welfare.

If working is no longer possible, financial support is available for you and your family from Work and Income NZ (WINZ).

If you give up work, make sure you are stimulated by an appropriate activity like gardening or something else around the house you enjoy.  You will need to consider your ability to drive.  Sometimes people with dementia recognise their own limits whilst others are relunctant to accept they can no longer drive (refer our Education section for full details on Dementia and Driving).

Advice for Carers

Carers should be prepared that the person with dementia may no longer be able to make even the simplest decision.  This will be hard to accept for both, by the person and the family.  In the best interests of the person with dementia someone who knows him or her well, usually the carer, may have to take over decision-making.  Alzheimers Auckland is able to help with advice in this area, if needed.  There is also the possibility of the primary carer having to alter employment commitments or give up work as the disease progresses.

Partnership

Intimacy and sexuality will also be affected by the early onset of dementia.  Changes in behaviour may range from a complete withdrawal of physical contact to demanding physical behaviour.

Children

Children, especially young children whose parent has been diagnosed with dementia, may have reactions varying from anger to isolation, or become embarrassed and withdraw from their friends.  They may be afraid that they will also lose the other parent to illness or to inherit the disease themselves.  Both parents need to make time to talk through this with their child.  There is material available from Alzheimers Auckland which focus on the needs of children.  

For more detailed information, please visit Alzheimers New Zealand website and browse their resources section www.alzheimers.org.nz/resources.php.