Britain’s youngest individual diagnosed with dementia, whose brain functioned as that of a 70-year-old, has passed away at the age of 24.
Andre Yarham was informed of his early-onset dementia condition after his family observed his slowed movements and speech. He was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, attributed to a protein mutation, a month before turning 23.
Frontotemporal dementia is a rare subtype of dementia affecting approximately one in 20 individuals with the disease. Andre, hailing from Dereham in Norfolk, succumbed to an infection on December 27 while under hospice care.
His mother, Sam Fairbairn, 49, fondly remembered her son and chose to donate his brain to further dementia research efforts. Describing Andre as a spirited young man with a kind heart and sense of humor, she emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the severity and varied manifestations of dementia.
Sam recounted Andre’s cognitive decline starting in 2022, noting instances where he appeared forgetful or unresponsive. Following an MRI scan in 2023, it was revealed that Andre’s brain resembled that of a 70-year-old, confirming his early-onset dementia diagnosis.
With just 0.1 percent of the UK population receiving a dementia diagnosis before 65, Andre’s condition was a devastating revelation for the family. Witnessing his rapid deterioration, they eventually had to transition him to a nursing home to address his increasing care needs.
Despite enjoying a typical childhood, participating in sports and later working at Lotus Cars, Andre’s health declined rapidly in his early twenties, prompting the family to provide round-the-clock care. His passion for wrestling and video games, along with his brief stint at Lotus Cars, showcased his vibrant personality before the onset of the disease.
Following a decline in his health in December, Andre was admitted to the hospital due to an infection, marking the beginning of his final decline. Transferred to Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice after a brief hospital stay, Andre passed away on December 27.
Sam expressed the family’s deep sorrow over Andre’s passing, emphasizing the necessity of continued efforts to combat dementia and improve care for those affected by the disease.