Younger onset dementia (YOD) is a type of dementia that happens to people under the age of 65. Dementia is a condition that affects how the brain works, making it harder to think clearly, remember things, and sometimes even move or control emotions. While dementia is more common in older people, it can also happen to people in their fifties, forties, or even thirties. Right now, around 29,000 Australians are living with younger onset dementia, and this number is expected to grow in the future.
Because younger onset dementia is not as common, it can take longer for people to get the right diagnosis. Many people are still working, raising kids, and managing a home when they find out they have dementia. This can make life very challenging. Family and friends might not understand at first because the person still looks healthy. Some people with dementia lose touch with friends or stop doing hobbies they used to love.
Brightwater addresses the unique needs of younger people with dementia through support and services designed to promote independence, wellbeing, and community engagement. We partner with individuals and families living with younger onset dementia (YOD) to ensure they receive support services available to them. We aim to help people live their best possible lives in a way that’s meaningful to them.
Clients are supported to make choices to maximise independence and wellbeing, including:
We use a team approach to provide support for clients with YOD. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to address the physical, emotional, and social needs of our clients to maximise long-term quality of life, including occupational therapists, speech pathologists, physiotherapists, PBS practitioners, and support coordinators.
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Caring for someone living with mild to moderate dementia can be rewarding but also challenging. By getting the right support, education, and connections early on, you can help your loved one with dementia stay at home for longer.
BrightRespite is a 3-day, 2-night respite retreat set in the comfort of a hotel or resort. It is designed to refresh and empower carers while providing quality care and enriching activities for your loved one.
BrightRespite is more than just a break – it’s an opportunity for carers to gain vital skills, connect with others who share similar experiences, and rediscover balance in their caregiving journey.
Discover BrightRespiteWhen a parent or family member has a brain injury or younger onset dementia, it can be confusing and stressful for children and young adults. Keeping Us in Mind is here to help. This program was created with families and experts to better understand what it’s like for young people when a parent’s health changes. It provides support, information, and guidance to help children, teens, and young adults cope with the challenges that come with a family member’s brain injury.
Access the resources
Our resource list provides a comprehensive list of resources and support services available for individuals living with younger onset dementia and their families in Australia. Included are details on organizations offering medical, psychological, and practical support, as well as educational tools, community networks, and assistive technologies to enhance the quality of life for those affected.
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We create communities where people connect and belong, thriving through progressive and responsive care.
Whether in your own home, or one of ours, we keep you connected to what matters most, in the communities you belong so you can thrive.
As specialists in acquired and progressive neurological conditions we support people living with Brain Injuries, Dementia, and Huntington's Disease to reach their full potential. Designing bespoke programs and world leading homes including BrightRespite, Piara Waters Huntington's Disease and Oats Street brain rehabilitation, to provide innovative care and a pathway to greater independence.
We are the only WA aged care and disability provider with a dedicated Research Centre – a hub of discovery and innovation, collaborating with national and international universities to find innovative solutions to improve the quality of lives of our clients.
For over 100 years, we’ve been there for West Australians from all walks of life. With humble beginnings in Subiaco, today we provide services all across Perth.
