A new guide is now available to support the estimated 29,000 Australians living with younger onset dementia, which is any type of dementia in people under the age of 65 years old.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said that dementia can happen to anybody and it is possible to develop symptoms in your 30s, 40s and 50s.
"It is important that people impacted by younger onset dementia can access age-appropriate resources and support tailored to their lives," said Professor Buchanan.
"This guide will provide key information on the impact of younger onset dementia on individuals, families and carers, along with the supports and services available.
"We were proud to develop this guide in consultation with people living with younger onset dementia, their families and carers."
Dementia Australia Ambassador Tully Smyth who cared for her mother Kay who lived with younger onset dementia, said the changes to her family's lives after diagnosis were immense.
"It felt like an impossibly hard situation with no clear way out, at least not for a very long time," said Ms Smyth.
A diagnosis of younger onset dementia can have a profound impact on individuals and their loved ones. Being informed and prepared can help families navigate the challenges and make empowered decisions about care and planning.
People living with younger onset dementia can often experience stigma and unique challenges due to their stage of life. People can be impacted emotionally, physically, socially and financially.
Insignia Financial and the Insignia Community Foundation are pleased to partner with Dementia Australia to support the development of the inaugural Younger Onset Dementia Guide in 2025.
Chair of the Insignia Community Foundation Angie Dickschen said that the Insignia Community Foundation and Insignia Financial are proud to play a role in supporting Dementia Australia through vital products like the Younger Onset Dementia Guide.
"We see this guide as an essential tool for Australians, along with their families and carers, who have been diagnosed with younger onset dementia. We want people to have the support they need to continue living their lives as well as possible and to be able to plan for the future," said Ms Dickschen.
The guide is now freely available in print and online at dementia.org.au/younger-onset-dementia-guide
