Many people are ‘wrongly’ associating dementia with age, experts warn
More than 70,000 Brits are believed to be living with the progressive condition of young onset dementia. This form of dementia has recently been highlighted in an EastEnders storyline twist that saw character Nigel Bates, a familiar face since 1992, reveal his diagnosis.
Digital Spy reported that EastEnders bosses are committed to portraying this tragic condition accurately and sensitively through Nigel’s character, partnering with organisations like Dementia UK to ensure they get the facts right. Young onset dementia, not to be mistaken for childhood dementia which affects young children and teenagers, refers to dementia that develops before the age of 65.
Some individuals can start showing symptoms as early as their 30s. As symptoms often begin around midlife, it can cause significant upheaval and distress to the patient and their family, not just due to the emotional impact of the diagnosis.
The patient often has substantial long-term commitments such as a mortgage, career or caring for elderly parents that they will need to consider. Dementia UK highlighted that many younger people are completely unaware of the early signs and symptoms because the condition is often “wrongly” associated with old age.
Furthermore, some of the earliest symptoms may not be related to memory and can vary greatly from person to person. Early warning signs of young onset dementia often include changes in behaviour and personality, such as sudden irritability, anxiety, irrationality or uncharacteristic actions.
Language and communication difficulties are also common, with sufferers struggling to find the right words, developing slurred speech or noticing changes in their handwriting. These symptoms can be linked to issues with movement and coordination, like increased clumsiness, loss of mobility or balance problems.
Social struggles and difficulties managing daily tasks, such as meeting work deadlines or losing interest in socialising, may also indicate young onset dementia. Additionally, lesser-known vision problems can be key indicators – those with the condition might miss objects in plain sight, struggle to judge distances or even experience hallucinations.
If you’re worried that you or someone you know could be showing these symptoms, it’s advised to book a GP appointment as soon as possible. While waiting for a medical appointment, experts suggest keeping a record of any new symptoms or changes you’ve noticed in a loved one.
The charity cautioned: “There may be challenges along the way to receiving a diagnosis. A person may be reluctant to go to the doctor due to fear or be in denial that there is an issue. It could be explained that their symptoms may be due to another condition that could be treated, as this may encourage the person to see their GP. “
While this might just be a persuasive tactic, it’s also possibly true as conditions like vitamin deficiency, depression and menopause can mimic some of the symptoms of young onset dementia. Regardless, securing a diagnosis as early as possible can help individuals manage their symptoms and plan for their future, especially if they do have young onset dementia.
If you or someone you know is diagnosed with the condition, or needs support in getting this diagnosis, there are numerous resources available. Dementia UK even has a dedicated community for this type of dementia, providing access to support, resources and local services.
