Dementia in young adults

Symptoms may include difficulty learning new information, planning work, finding words, judging distances, recognising objects, managing money or completing familiar tasks. Changes may first appear at work or in relationships rather than as simple forgetfulness. Depression, anxiety, burnout, sleep problems, thyroid disease, vitamin deficiency, medication effects, alcohol or neurological conditions can produce similar difficulties, so a careful assessment is needed.

The person’s age can make the change harder to recognise and may affect work, parenting, driving, finances and future planning. The Dementia page explains the condition in more detail.

Write down examples, dates, work or home effects, sleep changes, alcohol use and all medicines or supplements. Take someone who knows the pattern well, with the person’s permission. A GP Consultation can review physical health, mood, medication and memory, then arrange further evaluation when appropriate. Ask for clear explanations and practical support while assessment is continuing.

Arrange an appointment for persistent or progressive changes that affect work, safety, communication or daily tasks. Seek urgent help for sudden confusion, new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, seizure, severe headache or a sudden loss of coordination. Do not wait for a routine memory appointment when symptoms begin abruptly.

Ask what reversible causes will be checked, whether work or driving needs temporary changes, what tests may be offered, and who can support family members. If anxiety, low mood or trauma is prominent, ask whether a Mental Health Assessment is appropriate alongside physical checks.