Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): An Easy Guide

Frontotemporal dementia affects parts of the brain that guide behavior, personality, language, and judgment. This guide explains common patterns in simple language and shares everyday tips for calmer, safer days.

What is FTD?

FTD is a group of conditions that cause changes in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Unlike Alzheimer’s, FTD often starts with behavior or language changes rather than memory loss. It can appear earlier than other dementias—sometimes in the 50s or 60s—but timing varies for each person.

How it can look different

Behavior/Personality changes (bvFTD): acting impulsively, saying things bluntly, reduced empathy, new fixations or routines.
Language changes (PPA variants): trouble finding words, forming sentences, or understanding language.
Daily judgment: difficulty with social cues, planning, or safety awareness.
Memory can be relatively okay in early stages, which can be confusing for families.

Common signs (in everyday words)

Changes in eating (sweet cravings) or apathy (low drive to start tasks)
Saying or doing things that feel out of character
Strong preference for routines, foods, or activities; getting “stuck” on one thing
Trouble with word-finding, naming objects, or understanding complex sentences
Reduced filter in public; unintentionally rude or risky choices

How it’s diagnosed

Only a clinician can diagnose FTD. They may use:

History & examples of behavior or language changes
Thinking and language tests (different from typical Alzheimer’s tests)
Scans that can help show frontal/temporal changes
A clear description of everyday changes—ideally from someone who knows the person well—can be very helpful.

Everyday support that helps

Keep routines simple: predictable schedules lower stress.
Set gentle boundaries: limit risky activities; remove triggers where possible.
Offer structured choices: two good options avoid power struggles.
Break tasks into steps: cue one step at a time; use short checklists.
Match activities to abilities: short, hands-on tasks (folding towels, sorting items) or large-print short stories read together.

Communication tips (language changes)

Short sentences, one idea at a time; pause between steps.
Use gestures and visual cues (pointing, showing).
Yes/No or either/or questions instead of open-ended ones.
Be patient with word-finding: offer the word gently if asked; avoid quizzing.

Communication tips (behavior changes)

Don’t argue core beliefs; redirect to a safe, simple activity.
Reduce triggers (crowded places, complicated tasks).
Clear, calm tone; avoid sarcasm or subtle hints—be concrete and kind.

Safety & wellbeing

Home safety check: remove hazards, secure tools/chemicals, consider a stove timer.
Money and driving: review early; set up safeguards with a clinician’s guidance.
Health basics: regular meals, hydration, movement, and sleep routines support steadier days.
Caregiver care: schedule short breaks; ask family/friends to help; seek local support groups.

Calming activities

Music from youth, gentle rhythms
Short, large-print stories read aloud together (5–10 minutes)
Tactile tasks: folding, sorting, simple crafts
Outdoors: brief walks, garden time, or sitting in natural light

When to seek help

Sudden behavior changes or safety concerns
Major issues with judgment (finances, driving, wandering)
New swallowing or speech problems
Caregiver burnout—if you’re overwhelmed, ask for professional support

Quick FAQ

Is FTD the same as Alzheimer’s?
No. FTD often starts with behavior or language changes; Alzheimer’s commonly starts with memory.

Is memory always okay in FTD?
Not always—memory can change later, but early difficulties often involve behavior, judgment, or language.

What helps today?
Simple routines, structured choices, calm communication, and short, engaging activities shared together.

Part of the series: Dementia Explained: An Easy Guide
See the overview page for links to other types (vascular, Lewy body, frontotemporal, mixed, and Parkinson’s disease dementia).

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