Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a lesser-known but deeply impactful form of dementia that often affects individuals in their 50s and 60s. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which typically impacts memory first, FTD primarily alters personality, behavior, and language.
For families in Maryland facing this challenging diagnosis, compassionate, specialized care is essential.
At The Kensington Bethesda, our Haven neighborhood was designed specifically to provide thoughtful, tailored support for those living with advanced cognitive conditions, including frontotemporal dementia.
We understand that every person’s journey is different, and we’re here to offer not only expert care but peace of mind.
If you’re searching for FTD care in Bethesda or looking for support for a loved one with frontotemporal dementia, this guide offers the insight and reassurance you need to take the next step with confidence.
What Is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes. These regions control personality, decision-making, language, and behavior.
As a result, symptoms of FTD can be strikingly different from other types of dementia.
Common signs of FTD include:
- Sudden personality or mood changes
- Impulsive or inappropriate social behavior
- Difficulty speaking or understanding language
- Lack of empathy or emotional awareness
- Trouble planning, organizing, or completing tasks
- In later stages, movement difficulties or memory loss
FTD is often misdiagnosed as a psychiatric disorder or Alzheimer’s due to its unique presentation. Early diagnosis is crucial for establishing realistic expectations and planning effective care.
The Emotional Impact of FTD on Families
One of the most challenging aspects of FTD is how quickly it can alter a loved one’s personality and relationships.
A once-outgoing, affectionate person may become withdrawn or show little emotion. Someone known for kindness might suddenly behave insensitively or impulsively.
This shift can be incredibly painful for spouses, children, and friends who are trying to understand what’s happening. Many families feel isolated or unsure how to cope, especially when standard dementia care approaches don’t fully address the behavioral and emotional nuances of FTD.
That’s why frontotemporal dementia support must go beyond general memory care, it requires compassion, consistency, and a setting designed to meet these complex needs.
Introducing Haven: Specialized FTD Care at The Kensington Bethesda
At The Kensington Bethesda, our Haven neighborhood was created specifically for individuals living with advanced or complex forms of dementia, including FTD.
It is a secure, serene, and thoughtfully structured environment where residents receive individualized support throughout the day.
What makes Haven unique for FTD care?
- Highly trained team members who understand the behaviors and emotional needs associated with FTD
- Soothing sensory spaces that reduce agitation and create comfort
- Consistent routines that help reduce confusion and distress
- Creative therapies like art, music, and pet therapy, tailored for nonverbal engagement
- Private suites with personalized touches to enhance a sense of familiarity
- 24/7 nursing oversight to manage medication, physical health, and evolving care needs
Most importantly, the Haven neighborhood is built on love and patience. We treat every resident with dignity, meeting them where they are each day.
Our Personalized Approach to FTD Care
FTD doesn’t follow a linear path, which is why care must be flexible, adaptive, and deeply personalized.
In Haven, we begin every relationship by learning about the person behind the diagnosis, their values, routines, and what brings them comfort or joy.
We then craft an individualized care plan that may include:
- Structured daily schedules with low-stimulation activities
- Redirection techniques to manage impulsive behaviors
- Speech or occupational therapy, as needed
- Modified meals and feeding assistance
- Regular family updates and care conferences
- Emotional support for spouses and adult children
By focusing on the whole person, not just their condition, we create a space where individuals with FTD can experience calm, connection, and dignity.
To learn more about our program, visit our Memory Care page.
Supporting Families Along the Journey
We know that caring for someone with frontotemporal dementia can be exhausting, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming.
That’s why our support doesn’t stop with the resident, we also wrap care around the entire family.
Through family meetings, education sessions, support groups, and one-on-one conversations, we help loved ones:
- Understand the progression of FTD
- Learn effective communication strategies
- Cope with grief and role changes
- Build a plan for the future
For those seeking reliable resources, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration provides education, caregiver tools, and a community of individuals facing similar experiences.
A Safe, Loving Home for Those with FTD
When a loved one has FTD, safety becomes a growing concern. They may wander, struggle with coordination, or react unpredictably to unfamiliar environments.
The Haven neighborhood provides:
- A fully secured setting
- Purposeful, calming design
- Daily therapeutic engagement
- Round-the-clock monitoring
- A consistent care team that residents can trust
Families often tell us that after months or years of stress and uncertainty, moving into Haven brings a sense of relief and renewed peace of mind.
From Confusion to Comfort: Real-Life Impact
It’s common for families to feel unsure about when the “right time” is to transition into memory care for FTD.
Our care team can help assess your loved one’s needs and guide you through the decision-making process with gentle care and support.
For many, early support can improve the quality of life for both the resident and their family.
Residents in Haven often become more relaxed, sleep better, and engage more once they are in a structured, supportive environment. Even when verbal communication becomes limited, connection can continue through eye contact, music, and a meaningful presence.
Our Promise to You and Your Loved One
At The Kensington Bethesda, our guiding principle is Our Promise, to love and care for your family as we do our own. This isn’t just a philosophy, it’s how we treat every person who walks through our doors.
Frontotemporal dementia may alter the way someone interacts with the world, but it doesn’t change their need for love, respect, and a sense of belonging.
In our Haven neighborhood, we honor the individual behind the illness and support the family who loves them.
Let’s Begin the Conversation
If you’re exploring FTD care in Bethesda or looking for specialized frontotemporal dementia support in Maryland, The Kensington Bethesda is here for you. Our team is ready to listen, share guidance, and help you understand the next steps with compassion and care.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a personal tour of our Haven neighborhood.
You are not alone, and your loved one deserves a home filled with comfort, connection, and understanding.