When Dementia Comes Early: The Truth About Frontotemporal Degeneration

Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) is a lesser-known form of dementia that often affects people in their 40s and 50s, bringing profound changes in behavior, personality, and language.

In this episode of Honestly Aging by Friends Life Care VigR®, we're joined by Esther Kane, Support & Education Director at The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), and Liz Zadnik, an AFTD Ambassador for Pennsylvania whose mother was diagnosed with FTD.

Together, they explore:

• What Frontotemporal Degeneration is and how it differs from other dementias

• Who is typically affected, and the early warning signs families may notice

• The emotional and practical challenges of receiving an FTD diagnosis

• Current treatment options and what families can do if they suspect symptoms

• How AFTD supports individuals, families, and care partners through education, resources, and connection

Liz also shares her family's personal journey with FTD and how her work as an ambassador helps ensure others feel less alone. Esther offers expert insight into navigating diagnosis, building a support team, and finding reliable resources.

This conversation is an honest, compassionate look at what it means when dementia comes early, and where hope, support, and understanding can be found.

Resources:

https://www.theaftd.org/

1-800-507-7222

[e-mail]

https://www.theaftd.org/find-support/

https://www.theaftd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Persons-with-FTD-3.2025.pdf

https://ftdregistry.org/

https://www.pennftdcenter.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-kane-msn-rn-cdp-2237577b/

https://www.theaftd.org/about-us/aftd-ambassadors/

https://www.facebook.com/TheAFTD/

https://www.threads.com/@theaftd

https://www.youtube.com/user/TheAFTDorg

https://x.com/AFTDHope

https://www.instagram.com/theaftd/

https://www.tiktok.com/@theaftd

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-association-for-frontotemporal-degeneration/

Friends Life Care:

https://www.friendslifecare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/friendslifecare/

https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/friends-life-care-/

https://www.instagram.com/friendslifecare/

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