Frontotemporal Dementia: Signs & Symptoms

Donna Nichols • August 9, 2021

Have you ever heard of Frontotemporal Dementia?

I haven’t until I read this article; I think this is very important information and needs to be out there for everyone.

Please after reading my highlights, follow up and read the entire article; trust me, it will be well worth it.

1. Frontotemporal dementia tends to start at younger ages; often between the ages of forty-five and sixty-five, but can start as early as twenty.

2. Frontotemporal dementia can be confused with depression, schizophrenia, or Alzheimer’s, thus making it hard to diagnose. The part of the brain that is affected controls personality, emotions, behaviors, and speech. In the beginning, it leaves the part of the brain alone that controls your short-term memory, which would make you think you’re perfectly fine.

3. The signs and symptoms can look like you are withdrawn, anti-social, depressed. You can show signs of a lack of personal hygiene, overeating and severe weight gain. The person with FTD may be unaware they are displaying these behaviors as it is a disease of the brain.

4. There are signs and symptoms with a person’s speech, such as finding the right word to say, speaking with hesitation. Should you notice any of these changes in you or someone you know, you may want to be checked out by a doctor just to be safe.

5. You will need to have blood work, brain imaging, an MRI and a CT scan done along with any other testing your doctor feels appropriate to diagnose FTD or to rule out other causes for your symptoms.

6. Right now, the only risk factor for FTD is a family history of dementia, but not all those with FTD have a history of dementia. There is no cure for FTD, but there are medications that can improve the quality of life for those living with FTD.

I think you should all read the full article for more information; of course, it’s up to you, but it will be well worth it. The signs and symptoms of FTD mask everyday signs and symptoms of just about everything. Perhaps that’s what I found most fascinating.

Please click on the link below.

If you think your loved one has symptoms of Alzheimer’s or related dementia, please get them to a doctor quickly. Also, contact Assisted Living Made Simple for more information on our monthly Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Groups.

The Essential Facts about Frontotemporal Dementia !

If you’re looking for other senior living articles and resources then click here.

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What can a Senior Advisor do for you?

By Donna Nichols • July 17, 2025
A senior advisor is a personal guide or advocate for older adults and their families. Here’s what they can do for you: Help Navigate Options They can explain the differences between independent living, assisted living, memory care, nursing homes, and in-home care, and recommend the best option for a person's health, lifestyle, and budget. Find the Right Community or Services They often have knowledge of (and connections with) local senior living communities or services. They’ll: Match your needs to suitable options Setting up tours Even help ask the right questions Assist with Financial Planning Some advisors can help figure out how to pay for care: Understanding long-term care insurance Veterans’ benefits Medicaid/Medicare guidance Budget planning Guide Legal and Paperwork Stuff They can refer you to elder law attorneys, help with advance directives, or even help you understand contracts from senior living facilities. Support for Families They can act as a neutral third party when families struggle with decisions, easing tension and helping everyone feel informed and involved. Assist with Movers and Downsizers Some advisors have connections with movers, downsizers, and other people who can make your transition smooth.  If you believe a senior advisor can assist you, please call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation at 386-847-2322 . Our services are 100% FREE to you! What have you got to lose?

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By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
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By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
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