When we think of dementia, most of us picture it as a condition that only affects the elderly—a cruel thief of memories that creeps in during our twilight years.
But for Fraser, a father and teacher from Australia, dementia arrived shockingly early, upending his life at just 41. His story is a powerful reminder that dementia is not just an ‘old person’s disease’—and that its early signs can be heartbreakingly subtle.
Fraser’s journey began in his late thirties, decades before most people would even consider dementia a possibility.
While forgetfulness is the symptom most commonly associated with dementia, Fraser quickly learned that dementia is much more than misplaced keys or forgotten names.
In a video posted on social media, he shared the unexpected ways the disease first crept into his life: difficulty speaking in the evenings, a growing reluctance to leave the house, and a desire to withdraw from social situations.
‘My brain has just had enough,’ Fraser explained, describing the mental exhaustion that would set in by the end of each day.
Many of us might chalk this feeling up to stress or burnout, but it was the first sign of something much more serious for Fraser.
Dementia before 65—known as young-onset dementia—is on the rise, and experts warn that it’s often misunderstood or missed entirely.
Molly Murray, a specialist in young-onset dementia, pointed out that the misconception of dementia as an ‘old person’s disease’ leaves younger sufferers fighting to be heard.
‘Rarer dementias are also linked to atypical symptoms, which often go missed. This prolongs the diagnostic journey,’ she said.
For Fraser, the changes were as much about personality as memory. He noticed he was becoming more ‘selfish’ and less reliable, often failing to follow through on promises.
These shifts can be mistaken for mood disorders or stress. Still, they’re common in early dementia, as the disease affects the parts of the brain responsible for empathy and social behaviour.
Coping with the unthinkable
Determined not to let the disease define him, Fraser has developed strategies to manage his symptoms. He writes himself notes, and even asks his daughter to text him reminders about her plans—just in case he forgets what she’s told him in person.
These minor adaptations help him maintain a sense of control in a world that’s becoming increasingly unpredictable.
But the important lesson Fraser has learned is the importance of mental health.
‘You will get anxious and depressed and need help getting through it. But reducing stress will have a bigger impact than you think,’ he said.
Research backs him up: chronic stress can increase the risk of developing dementia by as much as 24 per cent.
While scientists are still unravelling the exact connection, it’s clear that looking after your mental wellbeing is crucial at any age.
The subtle early signs
Fraser’s first warning sign wasn’t memory loss but language problems. He struggled to find the right words and noticed his thoughts felt more ‘surface level’ than usual.
Daily tasks became unexpectedly difficult, like turning off the shower or planning his day.
‘A fog just comes over your brain and you just can’t really focus on things very well, and you’re in a haze,’ he recalled.
These symptoms can easily be mistaken for stress, depression, or even just a bad day. But for Fraser, they were the first hints of a much bigger problem.
And he’s not alone: nearly 71,000 people in Britain are currently living with young-onset dementia, a number that’s risen by 69 per cent since 2014.
In Australia, the numbers are also climbing, with experts pointing to factors like obesity, poor diet, and increased awareness as possible contributors.
Fraser describes the emotional rollercoaster of living with the disease: ‘Some months you will have less foggy days and you will learn new things easier than you thought. You will be certain you have it and certain you do not have it.’
This uncertainty can lead people to downplay or exaggerate their symptoms, making getting the help they need even harder.
Dementia is already the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom (UK), and its impact is only set to grow.
Nearly a million people in the UK and seven million in the United States are living with the disease, and the numbers are rising fast.
The financial cost is staggering, too: the Alzheimer’s Society estimates that dementia costs the UK £42 billion a year, a figure expected to more than double in the next 15 years as the population ages.
Fraser’s story is a wake-up call for all of us. Dementia can strike at any age, and its early signs are often easy to miss.
If you or someone you love is experiencing unexplained changes in memory, language, or personality—especially if these symptoms persist—don’t be afraid to seek help. Early diagnosis can make a world of difference.
And remember, looking after your mental health isn’t just about feeling better today—it could help protect your brain for years to come.
Have you or someone you know experienced early signs of dementia? What strategies have helped you cope? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below—your experience could help others facing the same challenges.
Also read: Researchers reveal one move that may reduce dementia odds
