Too young for Dementia

Majority of dementia (severe loss of mental capacity which affects one’s ability in daily activities) patients are aged 65 and above, as most would think.

The Straits Times reported about 50% of dementia patients treated at National Neuroscience Institute are actually under 65, where majority are above 40 years of age.

To take care of a family member with dementia is certainly no easy challenge. Imagine it as taking care of a 1.65m 70kg giant toddler (figuratively speaking) for between 12-18 hours a day for an extended period. I’m not sure how many of us are mentally or financially equipped to do so. Especially if the underlying cause is Alzheimer’s disease which is currently incurable, and the damage to brain cells is unstoppable.

Active aging towards retirement is probably the best antidote. Mental exercise through games (e.g. word puzzles, mahjong, card games) and hands-on activity to stimulate thinking will certainly be helpful.