young-onset dementia

Background: Ageing is a significant risk factor for developing dementia; however, some people develop symptoms before the age of 65. Although less common, it is referred to as young-onset dementia. Estimating prevalence rates in Ireland is difficult, as there has been little study around what it is like to live with/care for this cohort; consequently, it is poorly understood. Methods: Nine primary carers were interviewed using semi-structured one-to-one interviews. Interview data were analysed with inductive thematic analysis.

Advance care planning in young-onset dementia largely remains a blind spot within current literature. This study aimed to explore the engagement in and the conceptualization of advance care planning from the perspective of family caregivers of persons with young-onset dementia and to identify potential similarities and differences in this area between American and Belgian persons with young-onset dementia and their family caregivers. An exploratory qualitative study.

Background: The significance of advance care planning in dementia is widely acknowledged. Despite the suggestion that younger people with dementia and their family might have distinct needs and preferences in this area, studies on advance care planning in young-onset dementia are absent.

Imelda cared for her husband through his journey with young-onset Alzheimer's disease. He was diagnosed at the age of 64 and died aged 68. This article describes many of the challenges that she faced in ensuring that her husband continued to experience purpose and meaning even as the ravages of the disease robbed him of his skills. She focuses on the need for the caregiver and the care professional to respond to the unique way in which the person being cared for engages with his or her world and to co-develop activities that are meaningful to them.