FTD

FTD or Fronto-temporal lobe dementia is different from Alzheimer's disease in that memory is intact for a while but other frontal and temporal lobe functions are impaired. The temporal lobe is responsible for understanding and using language so that is impaired. Visual hallucinations are not uncommon in the early stages of FTD as are tremors that mimic Parkinson's. These are called Parkinsonian symptoms, often mistaken for Parkinsons. Some have received a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease until things change. The frontal lobe, responsible for giving us social awareness, regulating impulsivity and mood, is also involved in FTD. The person may have mood fluctuations, impulsivity, and personality shifts. This is a hard disease on both the person affected and the caregivers. Caregivers, often overwhelmed with the changes that have occurred in their family member, need stability and this disease manifests itself in unstable ways. If you are dealing with FTD get as much information as you can. Join a FTD specific support group. Use the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 caregiver line. Google your state's Alzheimer's Association and get the number. The people who man the lines are well trained and available when you need them.