Kia ora and welcome to the April 2026 edition of Our Mind Matters Magazine.

This edition of Mind Matters focuses on young onset dementia.

For many people, dementia is associated with later life. But for others, it sits alongside work, raising children, and the day-to-day commitments that come with being in the middle of life.

Across the stories in this issue, that reality is laid bare. People continuing to work, parent, and manage households, while adjusting to changes that are often difficult to name, and harder to explain.

As Pat, a retired GP, shares:

“I only spend about five per cent of my week thinking about dementia. The other ninety-five per cent is the rest of my life.”

That sense of holding onto what matters sits alongside moments of change, and at times, being drawn into conversations and situations that weren’t part of the plan.

“I didn’t expect dementia to take me anywhere new,” says Alister Robertson, QSM.
“I’ve also found myself in conversations I never expected to have – with organisations, with officials, and with people who want to better understand what it’s like to live with dementia. I don’t speak as an expert. I speak from experience.”

For care partners and whānau, the impact often runs in parallel.

“When my friends had their babies, their mums were there to help and support – but when I had Lachie, I also had to look after mum,” says Fiona Faithfull. “My beautiful, patient mum would have moments where she became a whole different person – someone none of us even recognised at times.”

Alongside these stories, this issue also shares current research and insights into young onset dementia. Building understanding remains an important part of improving support and responses across Aotearoa.

Young onset dementia can feel isolating, but connecting with the right support early can make a difference.

Click here to read the digital edition of Our Mind Matters Magazine Issue #44.