What Is Early Onset Dementia?
Early onset dementia also called young-onset dementia refers to any form of dementia that occurs in people under the age of 65. It can affect people in their 40s, 50s, and early 60s, often at a time when they are still working, raising families, and deeply engaged in everyday life.
The most common form is early onset Alzheimer’s disease, but early onset dementia can also include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Lewy body dementia, and posterior cortical atrophy, among others.
Because it occurs at a younger age, the impacts can be profound affecting employment, relationships, financial security, and identity. At ONE Rehabilitation Service, we understand this. Our team is here to walk alongside you from the moment of diagnosis, offering specialist rehabilitation that supports both you and the people closest to you.
You are not alone. In Australia, it is estimated that more than 28,000 people are living with young-onset dementia. Many are navigating this journey while still raising children, working, and living full and active lives. Specialist support can make a meaningful difference.
- Early onset Alzheimer's disease
- Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Posterior cortical atrophy
Common Symptoms of Early Onset Dementia
- Memory lapses affecting daily tasks or work responsibilities
- Problems with planning, organising, or problem-solving
- Changes in mood, personality, or behaviour
- Withdrawing from work, social activities, or hobbies
- Reduced insight or judgement in decision-making
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places or losing a sense of direction
- Difficulty with numbers, finances, or managing bills
- Increased confusion, particularly in new or complex environments
- Challenges with vision, spatial awareness, or reading
How ONE Rehabilitation Service Supports People Living with Early Onset Dementia
There is no single pathway through early onset dementia which is why our approach is always built around you, your goals, and what matters most in your everyday life. We don’t just treat a diagnosis; we support a whole person, and whole families.
Our team of neurological rehabilitation clinicians works together to address the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social impacts of dementia. From the day you come through our doors, you’ll have access to an experienced, collaborative team who will get to know you as an individual; your history, your strengths, your priorities.
Goal-Centred Care
Everything we do is built around your goals whether that's staying in the workforce longer, maintaining independence at home, or keeping up with the activities you love.
Interdisciplinary Team
Your care is coordinated across our full team of clinicians; no silos, no repeated intake processes, just one cohesive team working together on your behalf.
Support for Families and Carers
An early onset dementia diagnosis affects everyone close to you. We offer education, practical strategies, and emotional support for carers and families navigating this journey alongside you.
Evidence-Based Practice
Our clinicians stay at the forefront of neurological rehabilitation research, applying the latest evidence-based strategies to help you get the most out of every session.
Home and Community Focus
Staying connected to your home and community is a priority. We offer home assessments, environmental modifications, and community-based support to help you live as independently as possible.
NDIS and Funding Support
We support clients through the NDIS and can help you understand your funding options. Our team can assist with planning, goal-setting, and navigating the system alongside you.
Who Will Be Part of Your Care Team?
One of the greatest strengths of ONE Rehabilitation Service is our truly integrated, interdisciplinary approach. Depending on your needs and goals, your care team may include any combination of our experienced clinicians, all working together under one roof.
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Neuro Physiotherapy
Supporting physical strength, balance, mobility, and falls prevention to keep you moving safely and confidently.
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Neuro Occupational Therapy
Helping you maintain independence in daily tasks, work, and the activities that give your life meaning and structure.
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Neuro Speech Pathology
Addressing changes in communication, language, and swallowing to keep you connected to the people around you.
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Neuro Exercise Physiology
Designing exercise programs that support brain health, physical wellbeing, and quality of life at every stage.
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Neuro Psychology
Supporting cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and adjustment to the changes that a dementia diagnosis can bring.
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Neuro Social Work
Navigating services, funding, family dynamics, vocational impacts, and the broader social challenges of living with dementia.
Your Life Is Still Full of Possibility
Early onset dementia is different from dementia in older age and the support you need reflects that. Many of our clients are still working, still parenting, still engaged in careers and communities they’ve spent decades building. Our role is to help you hold onto that for as long as possible.
Whether your priority is remaining in the workforce, maintaining your independence at home, staying connected to your family and social life, or simply understanding what lies ahead; we start where you are. We listen, we learn, and we build a plan that’s genuinely yours.
Early intervention matters. Research consistently shows that engaging in rehabilitation early even before significant functional decline; can help slow progression, preserve independence, and improve quality of life. Don’t wait for things to become difficult before reaching out.
- Staying safe and independent at home
- Remaining in the workforce for longer
- Managing daily tasks and routines
- Communicating effectively with family and colleagues
- Building cognitive and physical resilience
- Planning assistive technology and home modifications
- Accessing NDIS supports
- Supporting your carers and loved ones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is early onset dementia covered by the NDIS?
Yes. People under 65 who have been diagnosed with early onset dementia may be eligible for the NDIS, which can fund a range of support services including rehabilitation therapy, assistive technology, home modifications, and support coordination. Our team can help you understand your eligibility and navigate the application process.
Do I need a referral to access your services?
You don’t need a formal referral to get started; anyone can contact us directly. However, if you have been referred by your GP, neurologist, or another health professional, we welcome that too. Our Referrals Coordinator can talk you through the process and help determine if we’re the right fit for you.
Can you support someone who has only recently been diagnosed?
Absolutely. In fact, we encourage people to connect with us as early as possible. Early rehabilitation support can help you develop strategies to maintain function, build your understanding of the condition, and plan ahead; well before significant challenges arise. Starting early gives us the most to work with together.
Do you offer support for family members and carers?
What does a first appointment look like?
We always begin with a free introductory session with our Referrals Coordinator. This is a relaxed, no-pressure meeting; a chance to visit the clinic, meet some of the team, talk through your situation, and see whether ONE Rehabilitation Service is the right environment for you. From there, we’ll tailor an intake assessment to your specific needs and goals.
Do you offer telehealth or home visits?
You're ONE step closer to reaching your goals.
Book your free introductory session today and let’s talk about what’s possible. There’s no obligation, just a genuine conversation about how we might be able to help.
Our difference
The ONE Rehabilitation Service Difference
Outcome-Centred
We put client goals at the centre of everything we do, and encourage our clients to look ahead and build toward outcomes that are meaningful to them.
Neurological Focus
Interdisciplinary
You can see a team of therapists who collaborate with all people involved in your care. With a shared focus, we can make a larger impact in your progress.
One-Point Referral
We offer a simple referral process with our Referrals Coordinator to make it easy for you to access the services you need.
Impactful Support
We don’t simply offer treatments; we aim to provide care where it’s most needed and build a community around our clinic where people find support.
Compassionate Clinicians
Our whole team shares a depth of experience in Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), and show patience, compassion and understanding of the unique challenges our clients experience.
Fees and Funders
Services Australia Care Plans
Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plans (CDM), Mental Health Care Plans (MHCP), and Team Care Arrangements (TCA)
Private Healthcare
Please contact your private health fund to see what rebate you are eligible for.
Full fee paying (16+)
You are able to access our services by paying the full rate (out of pocket). Phone (08) 7226 3223 for details on fees and to book your initial assessment.
Eligibility:
- 16 and over.
Return to work SA (RTWSA)
For further details, visit the Return to Work SA website.
For more information about ADF Bupa visit their website.
Eligibility:
- Sustained an injury at work during paid employment.
- Australian citizen.
Lifetime Support Authority
For further details on eligibility and to access the application form please visit the LSA website.
Eligibility:
- Sustained very serious injury in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of fault, from July 2014 onwards.
NDIS
We can accept NDIS participants who are self-managed or plan-managed. For more information visit the NDIS website.
Eligibility:
- Permanent disability
- Australian citizen
How to work with us
We offer a streamlined referral process to make your journey to finding care as simple as possible.
Step 1
Be referred by practitioner/support or book in your introductory session.
Step 2
Meet with Referrals Coordinator for a sit-down chat to discuss the options we offer, and see how our service can benefit you.
Step 3
Work with your personalised team of clinicians on creating your support plan.