Picking Away: A Daughter’s Heartfelt Journey Through Frontotemporal Dementia

Picking Away: Mum's Journey through Frontotemporal Dementia

by Oliver Sacks

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	607 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	46 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a cruel and insidious disease that robs individuals of their personality, language, and ultimately, their lives. It is a rare form of dementia that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, areas that are responsible for personality, behavior, and language.

In the United States, approximately 50,000 people are living with FTD, and each year, 10,000 new cases are diagnosed. The average age of onset is 55, but FTD can strike at any age, even in young adults.

There is currently no cure for FTD, and treatment options are limited. The focus of care is on managing symptoms and providing support to patients and their families.

In her new book, Picking Away, Jane Doe shares her family’s heartbreaking journey with FTD. Jane's mother, Mary, was diagnosed with FTD in her early 60s. Over the next several years, Jane watched as her mother's personality and language skills slowly deteriorated.

Picking Away is a raw and honest account of one family's experience with FTD. Jane writes about the challenges of caregiving, the grief of watching a loved one change, and the love that endures even in the face of adversity.

Picking Away is an important book for anyone who has been touched by FTD, or who is interested in learning more about this devastating disease. Jane's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of family, love, and compassion.

What is Frontotemporal Dementia?

FTD is a type of dementia that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas are responsible for personality, behavior, and language. FTD is characterized by a decline in social and emotional function, as well as changes in behavior and language.

There are three main types of FTD:

• Behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD): This is the most common type of FTD. It is characterized by changes in behavior and personality, such as apathy, disinhibition, and social withdrawal.
• Primary progressive aphasia (PPA): This type of FTD is characterized by difficulty with language. Individuals with PPA may have difficulty speaking, understanding speech, or reading and writing.
• Frontotemporal dementia with motor neuron disease (FTD-MND): This type of FTD is characterized by a combination of FTD symptoms and symptoms of motor neuron disease, such as weakness, muscle atrophy, and difficulty with movement.

What are the Causes of Frontotemporal Dementia?

The exact cause of FTD is unknown. However, research suggests that it may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Some of the risk factors for FTD include:

• Family history of FTD
• Certain genetic mutations
• Head injury
• Exposure to toxins

What are the Symptoms of Frontotemporal Dementia?

The symptoms of FTD can vary depending on the type of FTD. However, some common symptoms include:

• Changes in personality and behavior
• Difficulty with language
• Problems with social interaction
• Memory loss
• Difficulty with planning and decision-making
• Muscle weakness and atrophy
• Difficulty with movement

How is Frontotemporal Dementia Diagnosed?

FTD is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, a physical examination, and a neurological evaluation. There is no single test that can diagnose FTD.

Your doctor may Free Download the following tests to help diagnose FTD:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan
• Neuropsychological testing

How is Frontotemporal Dementia Treated?

There is currently no cure for FTD. However, treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Treatment options for FTD may include:

• Medication
• Speech therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Caregiving support

What is the Prognosis for Frontotemporal Dementia?

The prognosis for FTD varies depending on the type of FTD and the individual patient. However, most people with FTD will experience a decline in function over time.

The average life expectancy after a diagnosis of FTD is 8-10 years. However, some people with FTD may live for many years, while others may die within a few years of diagnosis.

Where Can I Get Help for Frontotemporal Dementia?

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with FTD, there are several resources available to help you.

The following organizations can provide information, support, and resources:

• The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD)
• The Alzheimer's Association
• The National Institute on Aging (NIA)

FTD is a devastating disease that can rob individuals of their personality, language, and ultimately, their lives. However, there is hope. With the right care and support, people with FTD can live full and meaningful lives.

Picking Away is a powerful and moving account of one family's journey with FTD. Jane Doe's story is a testament to the importance of love, family, and compassion in the face of adversity.

Picking Away: Mum's Journey through Frontotemporal Dementia

by Oliver Sacks

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	607 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	46 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE