Frontotemporal Degeneration: Understanding the Disease

This event is just for SWs, RNs, CMs and GCMs so there is no marketing or networking going on – just a very nice venue for learning!  

While the most common form of dementia among all age groups is Alzheimer’s disease, Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) is the most common for those diagnosed before age 60. FTD differs from other types of dementia in that memory loss is not a hallmark symptom. A group of related, heterogeneous disorders, initial symptoms bring progressive changes to personality, behavior, decision making, communication or movement. The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) will highlight the impacts of FTD on families, how it differs from other dementias, the signs and symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis and person-centered care, and review support resources for those living with FTD and their care partners.

At the completion of this presentation you will be able to:

• Describe how FTD differs from other types of dementia.
• Identify the common signs and symptoms.
• Recognize how FTD can impact families.
• Examine strategies for responding to AFTD.

Presenters: Dawn O’Gara, AFTD Ambassador & William Reiter MA, Education Program Manager - The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration

Dawn began volunteering with AFTD in 2019 and her father sadly passed from FTD in 2022. Prior to taking on the Ambassador role in 2021, she served as a Food for Thought Liaison, supporting volunteers throughout the country as they planned events for AFTD’s annual flagship campaign. She’s also raised funds for AFTD’s mission through the #FTDhotshotchallenge and independent fundraisers and raised awareness by sharing her family’s story in the media. As an Ambassador, Dawn works to spread awareness and educate those in Massachusetts. “If I can help anyone to not feel as lost and confused as we were when we received my Dad's diagnosis, I feel it is important to do so. I just know I need to help get awareness and education about this disease out there.”

William joined AFTD in May 2021 as Education Program Manager. He has worked in the dementia field for more than 30 years. In a variety of local and regional settings, he has provided direct support and education to those living with dementia, care partners, and healthcare providers. William previously worked at the Family Caregiver Alliance in San Francisco as well as the Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association where he coordinated and presented education programs. Most recently, he served as the Health Systems Director for the Alzheimer’s Association, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region, initiating and strengthening relationships with clinicians and regional health systems.

This even is virtual

You will get an "official" zoom invite the day before the presentation which will contain the meeting ID and password for joining. 

Please RSVP by Monday, February 6th, 2023 at 5:00

To Bob

This event is co-sponsored by:

Right at Home Boston Metro West & The Residence at Needham & Maplewood at Weston