While Alzheimer’s becomes noticeable through increasing memory impairment, frontotemporal dementia is indicated by a change in personality. Five behavioral symptoms are significant.
Among the 50 different forms of dementia, the so-called frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is considered a rather rare form, which is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the forehead and temple area of the brain, the frontal lobe (frontal lobe) and the temporal lobe (temporal lobe). This form of dementia attracted attention through the well-known US actor Bruce Willis. The reason why the cells die off is largely unknown Alzheimer Research Initiative e. V reported. In some cases, frontotemporal dementia, also known as “Pick’s disease” or “Pick’s disease”, is triggered by changes in the genetic makeup. A frequent occurrence of the disease within a family is observed. Metabolic diseases should also be considered as a risk factor. Almost all patients show changes in personality and interpersonal behavior at an early stage German Alzheimer Society e. V
When dementia changes personality: Five typical early symptoms
The reason why personality and behavior changes in frontotemporal dementia can probably be explained by the fact that the affected frontal and temporal lobes control emotions and social behavior, among other things. The typical conspicuous early symptoms of frontotemporal dementia include:
- loss of empathy
- apathy and indifference
- Disinhibition, also in sexual terms
- Aggressive, irritable, and inappropriate behavior
- tactlessness
Some patients also show pronounced language disorders, especially word-finding disorders. As with Alzheimer’s, memory is only affected as the frontotemporal dementia progresses.
You can find even more exciting health topics in the free 24vita newsletter, which you can subscribe to right here.
Frontotemporal dementia usually begins much earlier than Alzheimer’s, on average between the ages of 50 and 60. The youngest sufferers contract the disease before the age of 30, but some do not develop until they are over 60.
Dementia: How the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia affect family members
Whether Alzheimer’s dementia, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s dementia or frontotemporal dementia – the disease is always a great challenge and burden for the relatives. The person you once knew changes more and more over time. Living with someone who has frontotemporal dementia is particularly difficult for relatives due to the disinhibited behavior, the aggression and the unpredictability of the symptoms. The lack of empathy and an increasing disinterest in relatives and friends are often not easy to bear, as is the case German Alzheimer Society e. V know from experience with those affected. It is all the more important to regulate matters and wishes of the person concerned at an early stage, as long as he/she can still have a say in the decision-making process.
When dementia changes personality: the diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia is challenging
Diagnosing frontotemporal dementia can be difficult. Other diseases such as mania, schizophrenia, alcohol addiction or depression are often suspected due to the pronounced behavioral problems and personality changes.
It is valuable when those affected have a doctor at their side who, including the relatives, carries out a very precise diagnosis according to the exclusion principle. Important and decisive information can emerge from discussions with those close to you. Simple tests such as the mini mental status test, the watch test and the DemTect test can show whether dementia is possible. The Frontal Behavioral Inventory Test was specially developed for diagnosing frontotemporal dementia. There may also be other people in the family who also have FTD – in this case a genetic test can simplify the diagnosis.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about clinical pictures.