Caregivers of patients with FTD face different challenges from those encountered in Alzheimer's. A support group can provide a safe place to express your own needs and deal with painful emotions, including aggression, anger, mourning and guilt. It is a relief to know you’re not alone. One of the most valuable benefits of being in a support group is learning about coping skills and helpful resources from your peers. Every person's experience is so different, yet there are similarities that often only other caregivers can relate to. Many caregivers find new friends and social contacts in support groups.

The best groups for FTD caregivers tend to be groups focused on FTD specifically that provide a safe, trusting environment, clear structure and a facilitator. That said, your area may not have an FTD specific support group, yet you might find other FTD caregivers in a dementia related support group. Try the groups that appeal to you and meet your needs. It might help to talk to the facilitator or leader before the first meeting.

While we will list the frontotemporal dementia-specific support groups we know, we may miss a few. If there isn't one listed here that is near you, try a support group for caregivers or other types of dementia (such as Alzheimer's disease).

If there is not a frontotemporal dementia-specific support group in your area, try some of these groups that focus on dementia or caregivers. You can check with a social worker at your hospital, adult day care centers, your local Alzheimer's Association chapter or community organizations for recommendations. You can still find help and good ideas from people dealing with similar issues.