If your father had early-onset dementia, you might be wondering about your own risk. While having a parent with early-onset dementia does increase your chances, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll develop it too.
Early-onset dementia, which occurs before age 65, is less common than dementia that develops later in life. Only about 5-10% of all dementia cases are early-onset. When it runs in families, it’s often due to rare genetic mutations that can be inherited.
If your father’s dementia was caused by one of these inherited genetic mutations, you would have a 50% chance of inheriting that same mutation. However, even with the mutation, it’s not certain you’ll develop dementia – though the risk is very high, around 95-100%.
It’s important to note that most cases of early-onset dementia are not caused by these inherited mutations. Other factors like head injuries, cardiovascular problems, or unknown causes can lead to early-onset dementia too.
If you’re concerned, genetic testing is an option to check for known mutations. But this is a big decision with potential emotional and practical impacts, so it’s best discussed with a genetic counselor.
Even without genetic testing, there are things you can do to lower your overall dementia risk. Staying physically active, eating a healthy diet, keeping your mind engaged, and managing conditions like high blood pressure can all help.
Remember, having a parent with early-onset dementia doesn’t mean you’re destined to develop it. Many people with a family history never develop dementia. Focus on leading a healthy lifestyle and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
