Dementia is a challenging condition that typically affects seniors, but it can also appear and affect younger individuals, known as early onset dementia. Few people anticipate a dementia diagnosis to affect them, but even fewer expect it to happen in their 40s or 50s. Today, we wanted to explore what classifies early-onset dementia and how those with the condition deal with unique issues as they journey through life.
What Classifies as Early Onset Dementia?
Early onset dementia is any form of dementia diagnosed before the age of 65. Even individuals as young as their 30s and 40s are at risk, much earlier than most individuals and their diagnoses. Since this early form of dementia is relatively rare, it is challenging for doctors and patients alike to understand what is happening, why symptoms are occurring, and what the cause truly is.
Symptoms of various memory conditions can be subtle initially and are much more likely to be associated with a different condition because of their relative rarity. Common signs include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty in planning and problem-solving
- Noticeable changes in mood and personality
In young adults, these symptoms can be easily mistaken for stress or depression. However, these signs become more pronounced as the disease progresses, and the negative impacts will worsen.
No one is to blame for missing these signs in most cases. Doctors cannot check for every possible disease at a routine checkup. Diagnosing early-onset dementia involves a comprehensive approach, with an emphasis on the age-related challenges it presents. Doctors typically begin with a detailed medical history to identify potential genetic factors or lifestyle risks. Cognitive tests, neurological exams, and brain imaging help to rule out potential causes and confirm the presence of dementia-related changes. Usually, the absence of other conditions common in younger adults will lead to an eventual diagnosis of dementia. If nothing common explains the symptoms, healthcare providers will look toward more unique possibilities, such as early-onset dementia.
Impact and Unique Challenges of Early Onset Dementia
Early-onset dementia presents unique challenges that differ significantly from those encountered by older adults with dementia. However, these challenges are not unique in terms of the actual symptoms of health impacts. Instead, they impact the entire life plan of the person dealing with the condition.
Because of their age, individuals diagnosed with early-onset dementia are often in the prime of their working lives. Not only does a diagnosis make them unable to continue their career in most cases, but the sudden introduction of more unexpected bills means finances can become strained. Older adults usually have health insurance, retirement plans, or savings that can help them and their families make the transition after a dementia diagnosis.
In a similar vein, family dynamics are also significantly affected by a dementia diagnosis. Younger individuals with dementia may have young children or teenagers who require care and support. As a result, the spouse or partner of the person diagnosed often becomes the primary caregiver, balancing work, childcare, and caregiving responsibilities. Caring for someone with dementia can be an arduous task by itself, but it becomes near impossible if the caregiver is also tasked with maintaining a career and keeping a family together.
Getting Help Through Assisted Living and Memory Care
Anyone diagnosed with early onset dementia is likely at a time in their life where they have many responsibilities and people relying on them. Relative to the younger population, few seniors are taking out a new mortgage, starting a family, or making decisions in the current day that will bear fruit decades in the future. Many younger adults dealing with dementia often need just as much help and care as seniors with the condition, and spouses can be stretched thin trying to provide care.
Memory care facilities are full of staff whose entire careers are focused on providing high-quality care to those with dementia who need help in their daily lives. Regardless of age, residents can expect round-the-clock care, assistance with daily activities, meals, healthcare, and housing. Memory care and assisted living may be the best option to help the loved one in your life succeed and thrive despite their early diagnosis.
Contact A Banyan Residence today to schedule a tour of our facility and learn more.
