Qualitative Perspectives of Young-Onset Dementia Care in Australia: A Thematic Analysis From the Joint Solutions Project

People with young-onset dementia in Australia face significant challenges due to inconsistencies in diagnostic and post-diagnostic care. These challenges stem from a general lack of knowledge of young-onset dementia, limited age-appropriate supports, and inconsistent services that are available for people with young-onset dementia. The lack of awareness, insufficient professional training, and inadequacies in services exacerbate these challenges, and geographic disparities exist. In 2024, the J<i>oint Solutions Young-onset Dementia</i> project aimed to explore the care experiences of people with young-onset dementia in Australia, highlighting gaps, barriers, and positive aspects of the care pathway This paper presents the emergent themes derived from the <i>Joint Solutions</i> project. Using qualitative methodology, we gathered optional free-text data from a pool of 313 survey participants and feedback from 47 focus group participants, including individuals with young-onset dementia, caregivers, general practitioners, and community service providers. A thematic analysis generated six key recurring themes and patterns underscoring the needs of this population. These themes highlight the necessity to (1) increase <i>knowledge, information, and education</i> relating to young-onset dementia; (2) improve services to manage the <i>psychosocial implications</i> associated with young-onset dementia; (3) ensure sufficient <i>requisites</i> are in place to provide necessary support and preparedness; (4) enhance the <i>accessibility and availability</i> of age-relevant services; (5) consider the impact young-onset dementia has on personal <i>finances</i>; (6) reduce <i>bureaucracy</i> to obtaining support. These findings emphasise the urgent need for a nationally consistent care pathway to address young-onset diagnostic and post-diagnostic care. A comprehensive framework must be developed, offering a diverse range of resources and services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals diagnosed with young-onset dementia and their families.