What Working-Age Adults Need to Know
Dementia is often seen as an illness of old age, but early onset dementia, usually defined as symptoms appearing before the age of 65, is increasingly part of the public conversation.
The key question is whether it is genuinely becoming more common among younger people, or whether we are simply getting better at recognising it.
Is Early Onset Dementia Increasing?
Most researchers believe it is largely the latter. Improved awareness among clinicians, better brain imaging, and clearer diagnostic criteria mean that cases once mislabelled as depression, stress, burnout, or “mid-life crisis” are now more accurately identified.
This is particularly relevant for workers experiencing prolonged pressure or insecure conditions, an issue the Workers of England Union has highlighted in its work on mental health and stress in the workplace.
Risk Factors for Working-Age Adults
That said, there are factors that may increase risk at younger ages.
Long-term cardiovascular disease, poorly controlled diabetes, heavy alcohol use, repeated head injuries, chronic stress, social isolation, and poor sleep are all associated with reduced brain health.
For working-age adults, particularly those in physically demanding, high-pressure, or emotionally exhausting jobs, these risks can quietly accumulate over time.
This reinforces the importance of strong occupational health protections, something explored further in the WEU’s health and safety campaign.
Early Warning Signs
Early symptoms are often subtle and easily dismissed.
They may include problems with planning or organising tasks, struggling to find the right words, changes in personality or judgement, difficulty concentrating, or problems learning new information.
Unlike normal forgetfulness, these changes interfere with work performance, relationships, or daily functioning.
Persistent symptoms should always be checked, particularly when they represent a clear change from a person’s usual abilities.
Protecting Brain Health
Protecting brain health is not about miracle supplements or quick fixes.
The strongest evidence points to everyday habits: regular physical activity, good quality sleep, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, not smoking, limiting alcohol, staying socially connected, and continuing to learn throughout life.
Mental health matters too. Treating depression, anxiety, and chronic stress is part of protecting the brain, not separate from it. This aligns with the union’s broader approach to wellbeing and workplace support.
Reassurance, Not Alarm
Most importantly, early onset dementia remains uncommon.
Awareness should empower people, not frighten them. Knowing the signs helps workers seek support early and challenge stigma, not assume the worst.
Conclusion
As Stephen Morris, General Secretary of the Workers of England Union, puts it:
“Knowledge is reassurance, not alarm. Looking after your health, asking for help early, and supporting one another at work are the strongest protections we have.”
