Langhammer, Birgitta

Aim and objective To explore the challenges faced by family caregivers of people with frontotemporal dementia and other forms of dementia affecting the frontal and temporal lobes causing behavioural disturbances through a qualitative approach with in‐depth interviews. Background Studies of different forms of dementia involving degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes have mainly focused on the neurophysiology and physiology of the disease and on caregivers’ health.

Background Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) constitutes on average 10-15% of dementia in younger persons (≤65 years old), but can also affect older people. These patients demonstrate a decline in social conduct, and/or language aphasias, apathy, and loss of insight that is gradual and progressive. Preservation of dignity seems to be highly relevant both before and after admission to different types of institutionalized care, but the research is scant.