Frontotemporal Neurocognitive Disorder

Frontotemporal Neurocognitive Disorder (FTND) is a progressive brain disorder that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which controls behavior, language, and emotion. It is distinguished by personality and behavioral changes, issues with language, and issues with executive functioning (planning and decision-making). Pick’s disease and Frontotemporal Dementia are other names for FTND. It usually impacts people between the ages of 40-65, and men are more likely to suffer from it than women. 

Individuals with FTND may exhibit:

  • Behavioral changes – Impulsivity, lack of empathy, inappropriate social behavior.

  • Language difficulties – Trouble speaking (aphasia) or understanding language.

  • Movement problems – Muscle rigidity, tremors, or difficulty with coordination.

  • Emotional shifts – Apathy, mood swings, or loss of inhibition.

  • Refusal to communicate – Avoiding conversations or failing to respond.

  • Changes in mood and personality – Sudden alterations in temperament and demeanor.

  • Lack of control over social manners – Engaging in inappropriate or rude behaviors.

  • Obsessive or repetitive behavior – Repeating actions, words, or routines.

  • Abnormal verbal, physical, or sexual conduct – Unusual or socially inappropriate actions.

  • Increased weight due to binge eating – Uncontrolled eating leading to significant weight gain.

Coping with FTND involves creating a support network, changing one’s lifestyle, and making plans for the future. Family members and caregivers should also educate themselves on FTND and, if necessary, seek professional assistance. A healthcare professional may also suggest medications and treatments to address the symptoms of FTND. It’s critical to treat FTND with tolerance, comprehension, and willingness to adjust to changes in functioning and behavior. 

Currently, there is no cure for FTD, but early intervention can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Our treatment approach includes:

Currently, there is no cure for FTD, but early intervention can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Our treatment approach includes:

  • Personalized care plans – Tailored interventions based on the individual’s needs.

  • Speech and occupational therapy – Assisting with communication and daily tasks.

  • Cognitive and behavioral therapy – Managing mood and impulse control.

Individuals with FTND can considerably benefit from therapy by using it to address and manage the different behavioral, emotional, and cognitive symptoms linked to the condition. Mainly, therapy can assist patients and their families in comprehending and managing the personality, linguistic, and social changes that are usual in FTND. Overall, therapy can give patients and their families a supportive environment as they work through the difficulties of FTND and attempt to maintain a good quality of life.  

At Talking Brains Center, our specialized therapists provide therapy sessions in Arabic, French, and English to support individuals with FTD and their families. Our team offers speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psychomotor therapy, ensuring comprehensive care for language, movement, and behavioral challenges associated with FTD. We also provide mental health support, helping clients manage emotional regulation, impulsivity, and social interactions effectively.