brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Frontotemporal Dementia
Treatment of Frontotemporal Dementia
Relief of symptoms Supportive measures There is no specific treatment for frontotemporal dementia. Generally, treatment focuses on Managing symptoms Providing support For example, if compulsive behavior is a problem, antipsychotic medications may be used. Speech therapy may help people with language problems. Creating a Beneficial Environment for People With Dementia can be very helpful. Generally, the environment should be bright, cheerful, safe, stable, and designed to help with orientation. Some stimulation, such as a radio or television, is helpful, but excessive stimulation should be avoided. Structure and routine help people with frontotemporal dementia stay oriented and give them a sense of security and stability. Any change in surroundings, routines, or caregivers should be explained to people clearly and simply. Following a daily routine for tasks such as bathing, eating, and sleeping helps people with frontotemporal dementia remember. Following a regular routine at bedtime may help them sleep better. Activities scheduled on a regular basis can help people feel independent and needed by focusing their attention on pleasurable or useful tasks. Such activities should include physical and mental activities. Activities should be broken down in small parts or simplified as the dementia worsens. Caring for people with dementia is stressful and demanding, and caregivers may become depressed and exhausted, often neglecting their own mental and physical health. The following measures can help caregivers (see table Caring for Caregivers ): Learning about how to effectively meet the needs of people with dementia and what to expect from them:Caregivers can get this information from nurses, social workers, organizations, and published and online materials. Seeking help when it is needed:Caregivers can talk to social workers (including those in the local community hospital) about appropriate sources of help, such as day-care programs, visits by home nurses, part-time or full-time housekeeping assistance, and live-in assistance. Counseling and support groups can also help. Caring for self:Caregivers need to remember to take care of themselves. They should not given up their friends, hobbies, and activities. Before people with frontotemporal dementia become too incapacitated, decisions should be made about medical care, and financial and legal arrangements should be made. These arrangements are called Advance Directives . People should appoint a person who is legally authorized to make treatment decisions on their behalf (a health care proxy). They should discuss their As frontotemporal dementia worsens, treatment tends to be directed at maintaining the person’s comfort rather than at attempting to prolong life. 