The Challenges of Service Provision in Younger-Onset Dementia

Abstract

late-onset dementia, with a much higher proportion of preventable causes. Regarding presentation, there is great heterogeneity within this group, although prominent behavioral signs are characteristic. Dementia at a relatively young age is unexpected, distressing, and can have devastating consequences for the person, and his or her partner and children. It is associated with significant social and financial impacts and high levels of burden. People with younger-onset dementia face issues very different from older persons with the condition and do not fit in well with mainstream dementia and/or aged care services, which are aimed at the elderly. To enable adequate service provision for younger people with dementia, whether in a community or residential setting, it is necessary to understand the clinical features, prevalence, burden, and service needs of this group.