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When dementia typically begins — and why younger onset is more common than most people know

Dementia usually begins later in life, and the risk rises with age. Most cases are diagnosed after age 65, although some people develop it earlier. Younger onset dementia can happen, but it is less common. There is no single age when it starts for everyone because different types of dementia can begin at different times. If memory or thinking changes appear at any age and affect daily life, they should be checked. Early evaluation is important because some causes are treatable.