
Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal disorders (FTD) is frequently referred to as frontotemporal dementia and is the result of damage to neurons in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.
Frontotemporal Dementia is relatively rare. It is progressive, generally starting with one symptom and progressing as the disease progresses to other parts of the brain. While it is not an absolute, the younger a person is when they manifest symptoms the more rapid the progression of the disease.
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FTD tends to occur at a younger age than any forms of dementia. Generally, 60% of people with FTD are 45 to 64 years old. Because of the young onset, the manifested symptoms are rather startling to anyone in relationship with the individual experiencingthe onset of FTD. Family and friends may think that a person is misbehaving, leading to frustration, anger, and conflict.
It is important to understand that people with FTD cannot control their behaviors and symptoms and lack any awareness of their illness.
They are not faking it even though their memory may stay relatively intact.
SYMPTOMS:
Behavioral:
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Difficulty prioritizing tasks or activities
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Problems with planning and thinking through the steps of action
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Repeating the same activity over and over or phrase
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Acting impulsively or saying or doing thing impulsively without any
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concept of how their behavior may be perceived by others
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Becoming uninterested in things that previously they cared about
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Very limited self-awareness
Ability to Communicate:
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Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) – changes in the ability to use language to speak, read, write, and understand what others are saying:
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Person slowly loses ability to understand single words, familiar faces, and common objects.
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Difficulty speaking and may omit words – nouns and verbs
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Difficulty finding the right words but can understand words
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Movement Disorder:
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Lack of ability to control movement despite normal strength or muscle
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Rigidity and difficulty swallowing
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Problems with balance and walking, loss of facial expression and body stiffness, especially in the neck and upper body.
Slow the Progression
Frontotemporal Dementia can be difficult to diagnosis and behavior can lead to a gradual decline in relationships with family and friends. While there is no medically recognized cure, Mind Revive is ready to help you explore your options. An individualized protocol could significantly impact the progression of the disease. We also can help family members and friends gain a better understanding of FTD and not merely survive the journey.
Call today for your free consultation and discover how Mind Revive can help your relationship and Mind Revive.