Lifestyle and environmental changes
Once you have a diagnosis, as a patient or caregiver you should ask your doctor for resources where you can learn more about the disease and find others who are going through a similar experience. Frontotemporal dementia, particularly the behavioral type, can create safety issues in the home and around driving. Patients might leave pots on the stove, wander outside while inappropriately dressed, get lost, have aggressive outbursts or exhibit other potentially risky behaviors. You may need to remove dangerous items from the home and take away driving privileges.
Often times, adjusting expectations and making changes to the environment can help improve the patient's behaviors. Learning to roll with disruptive but non-dangerous behavior takes patience, but sometimes saving your energy for more serious matters is the best strategy. Review our Practical Tips section for ideas to help manage symptoms and daily routines. Support groups are another great way to learn non-medical ways to manage the disease - other caregivers often have great ideas.
End-of-life planning should begin as soon as there is a diagnosis so that everyone can participate. The documents can always be updated or changed at a later date, but it helps everyone to begin the discussions early and create at least simplified legal documents.
An exercise program that combines both strength training and aerobics is important for maintaining cognitive health. Cardiovascular exercise 2-4 days/week for approximately 30 minutes each time is beneficial. A regular walk is one form of cardiovascular exercise and does not require membership to a gym. A common saying at the Memory Aging Center is, “What is good for the heart is good for the brain.” Individuals should consult with their physician before beginning any exercise program. Regular exercise can help you and your loved one maintain your ability to function for a longer time. Don't only think about the patient getting exercise, consider a formal regimen for yourself.
Getting enough sleep also helps maintain optimal cognitive performance.
