Between a rock and a hard place: exploring the service needs of younger people with dementia

The commonly held perception that dementia is a condition of older age belies the fact that people under 65 years, and younger, present with dementia. Services for people with dementia have traditionally focused on the needs of older adults; people who are retired and more dependent. Younger people with this condition however, face different changes related to their young families', current employment and at times gaining a diagnosis. Traditional healthcare services do not adequately cater for the needs of this population and evidence suggests a need for specialised service provision for younger people with dementia (YPWD). While specific services have been initiated in some counties, in New Zealand there is little evidence of recognition of this problem. To consider the effectiveness of available services a literature review was undertaken to determine the need for age appropriate services for YPWD. Two main themes were identified, these relate to age appropriate service provision, a single entry point into services, and a defined care pathway. While there is some debate about the adequacy of existing services in meeting the needs of YPWD, the consensus suggests the importance and need for a focused specialised service to address the unique needs of this group. Further research is required to clarify the form and structure of a specialised service that supports best practice and meets the needs of YPWD in New Zealand.