Dear Helpline, 

When we’re out shopping, my loved one sometimes feels overwhelmed, and I worry people don’t realize their behavior is part of their condition. How can I support them and explain it to others in a kind way?”

Individuals living with frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and their care partners may encounter situations in the community and social settings that can become challenging or confusing, especially when others don’t understand that changes in behavior or language are part of a medical condition. The language and behavioral symptoms associated with FTD can make something like a shopping trip or a meal out difficult to navigate at times.

To help in these moments, AFTD’s Awareness Cards can be a useful tool to share with those you encounter in public and bring awareness that language abilities and behavior may be altered due to the diagnosis. These cards can be shared discretely with those you may encounter such as waitstaff, health care providers, neighbors, or law enforcement, etc. Even if these individuals do not know what FTD is, these cards can help reduce misunderstandings, promote empathy, and preserve dignity in everyday interactions. The awareness cards also refer to AFTD if people are interested in learning more about FTD.

By gently informing and educating others in the moment, these cards help bring greater empathy and broaden understanding of a diagnosis that can often be misunderstood or overlooked. The cards are designed for both care partners and persons diagnosed and are available for download on our website in both English and Spanish. You can find the awareness cards, diagnostic checklists, and more on the Resources page of our website.