Too Young to Have Dementia?
Dementia is most commonly associated with aging. However, young-onset dementia, also known as early-onset dementia, challenges the common perception of this illness as it affects individuals under the age of 65, most commonly those between 40 and 50 years of age. Read on to learn more about young-onset dementia, including its causes, symptoms, impact, and available resources for support and care.
Understanding Young-Onset Dementia
Young-onset dementia encompasses a range of neurodegenerative conditions, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common. However, other forms of dementia, such as frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia, can also occur at a younger age. Contrary to popular belief, dementia does not discriminate based on age, and the symptoms and progression of the disease can vary widely among individuals.
Causes and Risk Factors
Young-onset dementia has various causes. Genetics, infections, traumatic brain injuries, and other medical conditions can contribute to the development of neurocognitive disorder at a young age. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and overall brain health can also play a role. For instance, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain brain health. Regular physical exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can also be beneficial.
Additionally, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill, can help keep the brain active and healthy. It’s essential to take a comprehensive approach to well-being to reduce the risk of neurocognitive disorder.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Identifying cognitive disorder in younger people can be difficult because the symptoms can look like stress, depression, or other mental health issues. Young-onset dementia often includes:
- Memory loss
- Problems with language and communication
- Changes in behavior or emotions
- Difficulties with decision-making and planning
These symptoms can significantly affect relationships, work, and everyday life.
Impact on Individuals and Families
The neurocognitive disorder has a significant impact not only on the individual who is diagnosed with it but also on their family and caregivers. Caregivers play a crucial role in managing the day-to-day challenges of the disease, providing emotional support, and ensuring the individual’s safety and well-being. People who are still working, raising families, or pursuing personal goals may find that the development of mild cognitive disorder disrupts their future plans and ambitions. The emotional toll of receiving a life-changing diagnosis at a young age can be overwhelming, resulting in feelings of loss, uncertainty, and worry for the future. It’s important for caregivers to also prioritize their own well-being and seek support when needed.
Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing young-onset dementia often requires a comprehensive evaluation. This typically includes neurological exams, cognitive assessments, and imaging tests to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. The process may also involve a review of the individual’s medical history and discussions with family members or caregivers. Understanding the diagnosis process can help individuals and their families prepare for what’s to come and make informed decisions about their care.
Genetic testing may also be recommended, especially for individuals with a family history of dementia or known genetic mutations associated with the condition.
Once diagnosed, treatment options may include medications to manage symptoms, lifestyle modifications to promote brain health, and support services to assist with daily living activities.
Finding Support and Resources
Living with neurocognitive disorder presents unique challenges, but individuals and their families do not have to face them alone. Various resources and support networks are available to provide guidance, education, and assistance throughout the dementia journey.
Organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and local support groups offer invaluable resources, educational materials, and most importantly, a sense of belonging. They provide opportunities for connection with others who understand the challenges of living with young-onset dementia, fostering a community of support and understanding.
Embracing Life with Young-Onset Dementia
While a diagnosis neurocognitive disorder may bring significant changes and uncertainties, it does not define the individual or their worth. Embracing life with dementia means focusing on what is still possible, finding joy in meaningful moments, and adapting to new challenges with remarkable resilience and grace. With the proper support and resources, individuals with young-onset dementia can continue to live fulfilling lives surrounded by love, understanding, and compassion from their families and communities.
Manage Routines and Daily Life
Significant changes in daily life don’t have to disrupt you. Keep doing what you love. Just because you or your loved one may have been diagnosed with young onset dementia doesn’t mean giving up their passions, interests, and personal pursuits.
Alzheimer’s Canada recommends those diagnosed with young-onset dementia focus on what it is they can do, that is, focus on the meaningful things instead of focusing on what the person might not be able to do.
For Chrissy, a BC resident living with vascular dementia, that means involving herself in international dementia activism, advocacy, and publishing. Whatever it means for you or your loved one affected by the disease, please sit down and think about the activities that are meaningful and engaging throughout the week and plan out times to engage in them.
Use Tech for Helpful Reminders
Technology can be a valuable tool in managing the challenges of young-onset dementia. Using a calendar app, a smartwatch, or other digital aids can help you stay organized and remember important tasks or events. These items are super helpful in syncing the information across devices so that when it’s on, you can get reminders before it happens. That way, nothing is forgotten, and you can focus on what’s important.
Check Energy Patterns
Many people living with young-onset neurocognitive disorder have noted that they don’t seem to have as much energy as they may have in the past, and that goes for both physical and mental energy. Alzheimer’s Canada notes that if the person suffering from the disease notes changes in their energy regularly, it might be helpful to plan activities during the times of the day when they feel more energetic. This can help individuals with young-onset dementia manage their energy levels and engage in activities when they feel most capable, enhancing their quality of life.
Be Flexible
Keep in mind that dementia symptoms fluctuate daily. It is typical for activities and routines to adjust depending on how the person is feeling. For instance, Sophie, who once loved cross-country skiing and taking pictures, noted that she struggled with using a camera. So, instead of feeling helpless and depressed, she uses her iPhone or takes time to learn how to adapt to a larger camera since she might forget how to adjust the settings on a more miniature camera. This adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges is a testament to the strength of individuals with young-onset dementia.
Managing Young-Onset Dementia When You Feel Too Young
Young-onset dementia presents unique challenges and complexities, but with knowledge, understanding, and support, individuals and their families can navigate this journey with resilience and hope. By raising awareness, advocating for research, and fostering a community of understanding and acceptance, we can work toward a future where young-onset dementia is better understood and those affected by it are empowered to live their lives to the fullest. Also, please take a moment to read my article where I talk about young onset dementia and we explore the possible causes and treatment options.