The Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney will this evening unveil a new report highlighting the number of younger people diagnosed with the Alzheimer's disease.
It reveals that 59 per cent of younger people with Alzheimer's are living with their partners and 15 per cent have children under the age of 18 living at home.
Chief executive of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland Maurice O'Connell said:"Approximately 3,500 people with dementia here in Ireland are under 65 years of age but there is a lack of appropriate services and supports available for this younger group.
"This is because 9 out of 10 people with the condition are over 65 years of age and the younger patients are currently falling between the cracks.
"In half the cases, the person diagnosed with early-onset dementia is either the main or joint income provider which can result in severe financial strain for the family."
Commissioned by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, the report is being released to coincide with World Alzheimer's Day. The Alzheimer Society yesterday also launched an awareness campaign to highlight the early signs of the disease.
The 'Keep You Being You' campaign - which includes a TV commercial and newspaper adverts - aims to educate the public on early symptoms of Alzheimer's as well as highlighting the fact that significant memory loss is not a normal part of ageing.
Sarah O'Callaghan from the Alzheimer Society of Ireland told ireland.com: "The earlier someone is diagnosed with Alzheimers the more they can be involved in decisions about their care and their future. Early diagnosis also allows interventions to be put in place which may help to slow the development of the disease."
Ms O'Callaghan said the Alzheimer Society of Ireland can offer advice and daily practical support to carers and sufferers and they are hopeful that the campaign will help people get in touch.
"We have a range of services across the country for people with Alzheimer's and their families and we can be contacted through our helpline or website," she added.
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland helpline number is 1890 341 341 and their website www.alzheimer.ie