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How Dementia Changes the Way People Act, According to a Neurologist
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A new podcast episode explores the “social brain” adn how dementia can impact behavior and personality.
Psychological issues are not always instantly linked to dementia, but certain behavioral changes can be early indicators, especially in cases of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD is a neurodegenerative disease that commonly affects individuals under 65.
In his book, Mysteries of the Social Brain: Understanding Human Behavior Through Science, Bruce Miller, a neurologist, shares his observations of individuals with FTD. He explains what these observations have revealed about the “social brain.”
For decades, MILLER has studied FTD at the Memory and Aging Centre at the University of San francisco. He is also a professor of neurology and the founding director of the Global Brain Health Institute.
In a recent episode of the Big Brains podcast, MILLER discusses how to maintain a healthy “social brain” and how it can potentially unlock creative abilities.
A transcript of the podcast episode is available.
Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a group of brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are responsible for personality, behavior, and language. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which mainly affects memory, FTD often presents with changes in social behavior, emotional control, and decision-making.
“social brain”
Early symptoms of FTD can include apathy, social withdrawal, impulsivity, and difficulty with language. As the disease progresses, individuals may exhibit increasingly inappropriate or bizarre behaviors. Diagnosis can be challenging, as these symptoms can be mistaken for psychiatric disorders. There are currently no specific treatments to cure or slow the progression of FTD, but therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
The “social brain” refers to the network of brain regions that enable us to understand and navigate social interactions. These regions include the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and temporal lobes, which work together to process social cues, regulate emotions, and make decisions in social contexts. A healthy social brain is essential for maintaining relationships, communicating effectively, and functioning in social environments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dementia
- What are the early signs of dementia?
- Early signs can include memory loss,difficulty with problem-solving,changes in mood or personality,and confusion about time or place,according to the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging.
- How is dementia diagnosed?
- Diagnosis typically involves a medical history review, physical and neurological exams, cognitive and neuropsychological tests, and brain imaging, as explained by the Alzheimer’s Association and the National institute on Aging.
- Are there treatments for dementia?
- While there is no cure for most types of dementia, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include medications,therapies,and lifestyle adjustments,according to the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging.
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