Dementia is a general term for a range of disorders resulting in progressive changes in the brain. The term Young Onset Dementia is used when people are diagnosed with any type of dementia before the age of 65 years. It is estimated that there are around 90,000 people with dementia in Scotland. Around 3,200 of these people are under the age of 65. 

For more information about Young Onset Dementia 

Go to website Young Dementia Network

Go to website Together in dementia everyday (TIDE)   

There is also support available in the form of Go to website Dementia Cafés. The Cafés are open to people diagnosed with dementia, their families, carers and friends. They are an opportunity to meet other people who understand and are affected by Young Onset Dementia. The Dementia Cafes are groups for people that can attend safely on their own or accompanied by someone who supports them. 

Alzheimer Scotland in also have a Young Onset support service. People diagnosed with an early onset of dementia can have very different support needs to those who are older and who, in many cases have other health issues. The aim of the Young Onset Service is to work with people with an early onset diagnosis to enable them to maintain their interests and activities; - or introduce them to new community activities as their abilities change. To find out more, see Alzheimer Scotland page on support for younger people with dementia