Overview Of The Major Types Of Dementia

Frontotemporal Dementia

The lobes of the brain behind the forehead are the frontal lobes and temporal lobes. When they become affected by the damage that causes dementia, it is called frontotemporal dementia. The left temporal lobe is responsible for conveying the meanings of words and the names of objects. The right temporal lobe is responsible for the recognition of familiar objects and faces. When the cells in the frontal or temporal lobes die off, the connecting pathways between these lobes of the brain become altered.

As the damage accumulates, the frontal and temporal lobes begin to shrink in size, causing these lobes to lose function. This mechanism is what results in the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia, including changes in personality, changes in behavior, and difficulties with language. Frontotemporal dementia is the most prevalent form of dementia that develops in individuals between forty-five and sixty-five years old. This type of dementia in younger individuals tends to be the mildest form of the disease. It does not present with a short life expectancy like others.

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