What Is Frontal Lobe Dementia?

When someone you care about begins experiencing changes in their personality or struggles with language, it can be concerning and confusing for the whole family.

Below, we explore frontal lobe dementia, also known as frontotemporal dementia (FTD), including its unique symptoms and how it differs from other forms of dementia. We'll guide you through recognising the signs, understanding the different types of FTD, and explain why this condition is often misdiagnosed, whilst offering insight into the compassionate support available.

What Is Frontal Lobe Dementia?

Frontal lobe dementia, sometimes called Pick's disease, gets its name from the word 'frontotemporal' which refers to two sets of lobes (frontal and temporal) in the brain. FTD occurs when disease damages nerve cells in these lobes.

This causes the connections between them and other parts of the brain to break down.

Frontotemporal dementia is a rare form of dementia affecting around one in 20 people with a dementia diagnosis. What makes this condition particularly difficult for families is that FTD is mostly diagnosed in people under 65, usually developing between the ages of 45 and 65, which is much younger than when most other types of dementia typically appear.

As more and more nerve cells are damaged, the brain tissue in the frontal and temporal lobes gets smaller. This progressive damage leads to the distinctive symptoms that set frontal lobe dementia apart from other forms of the condition.

How Are the Symptoms Different from Other Types of Dementia?

The first noticeable symptoms for a person with FTD will be changes to their personality and behaviour, or difficulties with language. Sometimes it can involve both. This is very different from the early symptoms of more common types of dementia.

Unlike Alzheimer's, where memory difficulties often appear first, FTD typically begins with personality changes or language difficulties. Importantly, many people with FTD maintain their memory skills well into their journey, allowing for continued enjoyment of favourite activities and cherished memories.

What Are the Main Types of Frontal Lobe Dementia?

Understanding the different types of FTD can help families better comprehend what their loved one is experiencing and what support they might need.

Behavioural Variant FTD

The most common form of FTD primarily affects personality and behaviour. While your loved one may not always recognise these changes themselves, this presents an opportunity for families to step in with gentle support and understanding. With the right approach, many difficult behaviours can be managed effectively, allowing the person's true self to shine through in different ways.

Primary Progressive Aphasia

This form affects communication rather than behaviour. While finding the right words may become difficult, there are many alternative ways to maintain connection - through music, art, touch, and shared activities. Our experience shows that when verbal communication becomes difficult, other forms of expression often flourish.

What Behavioural Changes Might You Notice?

The behavioural changes in frontal lobe dementia can be particularly hard for families, as they may seem completely out of character for the person they know and love. A person living with this type of dementia will experience symptoms that impact personality and mood. Common behavioural symptoms include:

• Changes in behaviour regarding food or drink, eg craving sweet foods, poor table manners, overeating, drinking too much alcohol. These changes can be sudden, with someone who previously had moderate habits developing intense cravings or consuming inappropriate amounts.
• Difficulty with planning, organising and decision-making. Tasks that were once routine,  such as managing finances or planning a family meal, become overwhelming.
• Lack of awareness of the changes in themselves (lack of insight). This can be one of the most difficult aspects for families, as the person genuinely cannot see that anything is wrong.
• The person may also have problems taking medication or going to therapy sessions if they are not aware of their condition. Driving can be a difficult issue if they do not see a need to stop doing it.

The behavioural changes in FTD can feel overwhelming, but they're also opportunities to show love in new ways.

Why Early Recognition Matters

FTD can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms may resemble other conditions or life stresses. This is why seeking expert medical opinion is so valuable - the sooner you understand what's happening, the sooner you can access appropriate support and make plans that honour your loved one's wishes.

At KYN, we see this not as a delay but as part of the journey. Many families find that once they receive a diagnosis, they feel relief at finally understanding what's happening and can move forward with confidence.

Creating Moments of Joy at KYN

Living with frontal lobe dementia doesn't mean life stops being meaningful. At KYN, we've seen countless residents with FTD continue to experience profound moments of happiness, connection, and fulfilment. Our approach focuses on what remains possible rather than what's been lost.

Our specially trained teams bring both expertise and heart to FTD care. We understand that behaviour changes aren't choices but symptoms, and we respond with patience, creativity, and respect.

Through personalised care plans, we help each resident maintain their sense of self and continue enjoying life's pleasures - whether that's through music, gardening, art, or simply sharing quiet moments with loved ones.

We create environments where:

• Individual preferences are honoured and celebrated
• Daily routines provide comfort without feeling restrictive
• Families feel supported and included in their loved one's care journey
• Every small victory is recognised and cherished

Your Journey Forward

If someone you love is living with frontal lobe dementia, remember that you're not alone. With the right support, understanding, and care, people with FTD can continue to live meaningful, connected lives. At KYN, we're here to be your partners in this journey, bringing our expertise, compassion, and unwavering belief in the potential for joy at every stage of life.

To discover how KYN's specialist dementia care can support your family, please contact us on +44 (0) 20 4530 7700 or email enquiries@kyn.co.uk. Our compassionate team is ready to listen, understand, and help you navigate this journey with confidence and hope.