More Young People Are Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

Dementia and Young Carers: A Growing Concern

Dementia is a growing health problem, affecting more than 55 million people around the world.

The Growing Need for Support

In Australia, an estimated 433,300 people are living with dementia. This figure is projected to rise to 812,500 by 2054.

What is Dementia?

Dementia refers to brain disorders that are not a normal part of ageing. These disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, cause a decline in cognitive function and changes in mood, memory, thinking, and behavior, ultimately affecting a person’s ability to carry out everyday tasks.

Young Carers Taking on the Role

In Australia, around 75% of people with dementia live at home. While dementia care at home has traditionally been associated with older spouses or middle-aged children, an increasing number of young adults in their 20s and 30s, and even teenagers, are stepping into this role to care for grandparents, parents, or other loved ones.

The Unique Challenges of Young Carers

Unlike older carers, who may have more financial stability and free time, young carers often must balance caregiving with university, early-career pressures, and personal development, including maintaining social relationships, pursuing hobbies, and prioritizing mental well-being.

The Psychological Toll

These challenges take a profound psychological toll on young carers. Research shows that young carers are 35% more likely to report mental health issues than their non-caregiving peers, including depression, anxiety, and burnout.

Caring for a Parent – A Role Reversal

This emotional burden is particularly acute for those caring for a parent. These young carers are likely to experience the progressive loss of parental support, while simultaneously assuming the demanding role of caregiver.

How We Can Better Support Young Dementia Carers

Despite their growing numbers, young dementia carers remain largely overlooked in research, policy, and support services. This is partly due to the challenges in engaging this demographic in research, as they juggle busy lives balancing caregiving with education and work.

Conclusion

Without intervention, these young carers risk burnout, social isolation, and long-term health consequences. We must ensure flexible, age-appropriate support for this often invisible group. Investing in young dementia carers is not just a moral imperative – it’s a crucial step toward a sustainable, compassionate care system for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the impact of caregiving on young carers?
  • Caregiving can have a profound psychological toll on young carers, including depression, anxiety, and burnout.
• How many young carers are there in Australia?
  • An estimated 391,300 under 25 are carers in Australia, a sharp rise from 235,300 in 2018.
• What kind of support do young dementia carers need?
  • Young dementia carers require targeted support, including peer networks, educational programs, and practical skills training.
• Why are young carers often overlooked in research and support services?
  • Young carers are often juggling busy lives, making it challenging to engage them in research and support services.