Early Onset Dementia (Younger Onset Dementia): Signs, Support Options and How to Plan Ahead

Receiving a diagnosis of early onset dementia can feel overwhelming for the person affected and for those close to them. When symptoms begin before the age of 65, families are often navigating unfamiliar territory while balancing work, relationships and daily responsibilities.

Early-onset dementia is also commonly referred to as younger-onset dementia. While the symptoms may be similar to dementia diagnosed later in life, the experience can be quite different for people who are still working, raising children, supporting family members or living very active lives.

With the right support, information and planning, it is possible to continue living well at home while maintaining independence, dignity and connection to what matters most.

What is younger-onset dementia?

Younger-onset dementia refers to dementia diagnosed in people under 65. It is sometimes also described as early-onset dementia. 

While it shares many characteristics with later-life dementia, it can present differently and often affects people during a more active stage of life.

Younger onset dementia can begin when people are in the middle of:

• Working or managing a business
• Raising children or supporting family
• Maintaining a busy social life
• Managing financial commitments or caring responsibilities

Because of this, the emotional, social and practical impacts can feel especially complex.

What are the early signs to look out for

The early signs of dementia can be subtle and are sometimes mistaken for stress, burnout or other health concerns. Recognising changes early can help people access the right support sooner.

Common early signs include:

• Difficulty concentrating or completing familiar tasks
• Memory changes that affect everyday life
• Trouble finding words or following conversations
• Changes in mood, behaviour or personality
• Difficulty with planning or organising

If you are noticing these changes in yourself or a loved one, it is important to speak with a GP or specialist for assessment and guidance.

How can younger-onset dementia affect daily life?

As symptoms progress, everyday activities may become more challenging. This can include managing appointments, preparing meals, personal care or maintaining a safe home environment. For people living with younger onset dementia, these changes may also affect employment, parenting, relationships and long-term planning.

Many families find reassurance in knowing that support can be tailored to individual needs and preferences. Services such as in-home assistance, social support and help with daily routines can make a meaningful difference.

Support options available at home

Living at home with younger-onset dementia is not only possible. For many people, it can be the most comfortable and empowering option when the right supports are in place.

Support may include:

• Personal care, such as showering and dressing
• Help with household tasks and meal preparation
• Transport to appointments or community activities
• Companionship and social connection
• Respite for family members

The Australian Government’s Support at Home program is designed to make it easier for eligible older Australians to access coordinated care services that help people remain safely and independently at home. 

Understanding what support is available can feel complex at first, especially when families are also adjusting to a new diagnosis and changing needs over time.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

If you have been diagnosed with dementia and you are younger than 65, you might be eligible for support from the Australian Government through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The NDIS may provide funding and practical supports that help people living with younger-onset dementia maintain independence, stay connected to the community, and access services that support daily life and wellbeing.

Living with younger onset dementia program

Connecting with the right information and support networks can make a meaningful difference after diagnosis. Dementia Australia offers a Living with Younger Onset Dementia Program to support people living with younger onset dementia, along with their families and carers, as well as a range of other counselling services and online resources.

Watch: Understanding younger onset dementia

Planning ahead with confidence

Planning ahead can provide a sense of clarity and reassurance during an uncertain time. It allows people to express their preferences and helps ensure their wishes are respected as needs change.

• Creating or updating a care plan
• Discussing future support preferences
• Considering legal and financial arrangements
• Exploring advance care planning

Having these conversations early, while the person can actively participate, helps maintain choice, independence and dignity. It can also help families feel more prepared and more confident about the decisions ahead.

Supporting emotional wellbeing

A diagnosis of younger onset dementia can bring a range of emotions, including uncertainty, grief and anxiety. Support should extend beyond practical care to include emotional and social well-being.

Staying connected to community, hobbies and meaningful activities can help maintain a sense of identity and purpose. Support workers can play an important role in encouraging these connections and providing companionship. Families and carers may also benefit from support, including respite services and access to information that helps them feel more confident and supported in their role.

You are not alone in this journey

While younger-onset dementia can feel isolating, support is available every step of the way. With the right care, many people continue to live fulfilling lives at home, surrounded by familiarity and comfort.

At Just Better Care, support is tailored to each person, respecting individual needs, preferences and goals, and helping people stay connected to their community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is younger-onset dementia?

Younger-onset dementia, sometimes called early-onset dementia, is dementia diagnosed in a person under the age of 65. It can affect memory, thinking, behaviour, communication and the ability to manage everyday tasks. Because it often happens during working age, it can also affect employment, family responsibilities and long-term planning.

What is the difference between younger-onset dementia and early-onset dementia?

These terms are often used interchangeably. In Australia, younger-onset dementia is the more commonly used term for dementia diagnosed in people under 65. You can read more on our dementia home care page or visit Dementia Australia’s younger onset dementia information page.

What are the early signs of younger-onset dementia?

Early signs can vary from person to person, but common changes may include memory loss, trouble finding words, difficulty planning or organising, changes in mood or behaviour, and challenges completing familiar tasks. If you are concerned about symptoms in yourself or someone close to you, it is important to speak with a GP or specialist.

Can people with younger-onset dementia stay living at home?

Yes. Many people with younger-onset dementia can continue living safely and confidently at home with the right support in place. This may include personal care, domestic assistance, transport, social support, respite and tailored dementia care. 

What support is available for people under 65 with dementia?

If you have been diagnosed with dementia and you are younger than 65, you may be eligible for support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Depending on your circumstances, this may help fund services and supports that assist with daily living, independence and community participation. Dementia Australia provides more information about NDIS support for people living with dementia.

How can Just Better Care support someone living with younger-onset dementia?

Just Better Care provides personalised in-home support tailored to the person’s needs, preferences and goals. Depending on the individual, this may include help with daily routines, personal care, meal preparation, social connection, respite and progressive dementia support that adapts over time. To take the next step, visit our Getting Started page.

What is Support at Home, and could it apply to dementia care?

Support at Home is part of Australia’s aged care system and is designed to help older people remain living independently at home with coordinated support. It may be relevant for people living with dementia, depending on age and eligibility. You can find out more about Support at Home and aged care services through Just Better Care.

Is there a program specifically for people living with younger-onset dementia?

Yes. Dementia Australia offers the Living With Younger Onset Dementia Program, which provides education and support for people recently diagnosed with younger-onset dementia, as well as for families and carers. You can learn more about the program here.

Where can families and carers find more information about dementia support?

Families and carers can explore practical information and support through the News & Events section of the Just Better Care website, and more information about the signs, symptoms and support on our dementia home care page. For broader information, education and support services, visit the authority in dementia for Australia Dementia Australia.