When a loved one is diagnosed with a less common form of dementia, such as Lewy body dementia (LBD) or frontotemporal dementia (FTD), families often feel unprepared.
LBD conditions can progress differently from Alzheimer’s disease, with unique symptoms that require specialized understanding and care.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, we offer comprehensive Lewy body dementia support and frontotemporal dementia care in Sierra Madre through our highly trained care teams and personalized programming.
Here’s what families should know about recognizing early signs, supporting communication, and finding the right care environment.
Understanding Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia is caused by abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) in the brain, affecting thinking, movement, behavior, and mood. It is the second most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer’s disease, but its symptoms can appear in a different order or fluctuate day to day.
Common early symptoms include:
- Visual hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there)
- Sleep disturbances, such as acting out dreams
- Parkinson’s-like movement changes, including stiffness and tremors
- Fluctuations in alertness or attention throughout the day
Because these symptoms can overlap with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, an accurate diagnosis is essential to developing an effective care plan.
Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia affects the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes, impacting personality, language, and behavior. Unlike Alzheimer’s, memory may remain intact in the early stages.
Early FTD signs can include:
- Sudden changes in personality or social behavior
- Difficulty with language, including finding words or understanding speech
- Impulsive or inappropriate behavior
- Loss of empathy or emotional warmth
FTD often develops earlier than other dementias, sometimes in people in their 50s or 60s, and may progress more rapidly.
Communication Tips for Families
Both LBD and FTD can affect communication, though in different ways. For Lewy body dementia, fluctuations in attention may mean some conversations go smoothly while others are difficult.
In frontotemporal dementia, language and comprehension challenges may require different strategies.
Helpful approaches include:
- Use short, clear sentences and maintain eye contact
- Limit background noise during conversations
- Be patient with pauses, giving extra time for responses
- Focus on tone and facial expression as much as words
- Use visual cues, gestures, or written reminders when possible
By adjusting communication, families can reduce frustration and foster more positive interactions.
Managing Emotional and Behavioral Changes
For many families, the emotional and behavioral changes associated with Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia can be the most challenging aspects of care.
- In LBD, sudden shifts in alertness or hallucinations may cause anxiety or confusion.
- In FTD, impulsive actions or a loss of empathy can be distressing for loved ones.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, our care teams use compassionate redirection, calming environments, and consistent routines to ease these challenges. We also offer private spaces for one-on-one engagement when a resident needs quiet reassurance.
By focusing on understanding the “why” behind each behavior, we can respond in ways that support dignity and emotional well-being.
Creating a Supportive Daily Environment
For individuals living with Lewy body dementia or frontotemporal dementia, an environment that balances safety, comfort, and engagement is essential.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, our memory care neighborhoods, Connections and Haven, are designed to adapt to each resident’s abilities and preferences.
We incorporate:
- Structured routines to provide predictability and reduce anxiety
- Sensory engagement through art, music, and garden activities
- Adaptive physical activities for mobility and balance support
- Social opportunities in both small and larger group settings
By tailoring activities to match current abilities, we help residents experience success and enjoyment every day.
Specialized Care Training
Our team members receive ongoing education on less common dementias, including LBD and FTD, so we can anticipate needs and respond effectively.
For example, residents with LBD may need extra attention to mobility safety due to sudden movement changes, while those with FTD may benefit from targeted language and behavior support.
This training ensures that frontotemporal dementia care in Sierra Madre and Lewy body dementia support at The Kensington Sierra Madre meet the highest standards of compassion and expertise.
Family Education and Involvement
We know a diagnosis impacts the whole family, not just the individual. That’s why we offer regular educational workshops, one-on-one guidance, and open communication with care teams.
Families are encouraged to participate in activities, join meals, or simply spend quiet time together in welcoming spaces.
These opportunities not only help families stay connected but also provide a deeper understanding of the condition and how to support their loved one at home or during visits.
Building a Care Plan for the Future
Because both conditions are progressive, planning ahead is essential.
Our team works closely with families to develop personalized care plans that evolve as needs change, whether that means increasing mobility support, adjusting activities, or offering enhanced communication strategies.
We also connect families with community resources, support groups, and educational materials from trusted organizations to help them make informed decisions about their future.
By combining expert clinical knowledge with a warm, home-like environment, we ensure each resident receives the right level of care today while preparing for the needs of tomorrow.
Our Promise for Less Common Dementias
No matter the diagnosis, Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own remains the same.
In cases of Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia, that promise means creating an environment where residents are understood, supported, and celebrated for who they are today.
Our approach is not just about managing symptoms, it’s about helping each person live with dignity, purpose, and connection.
Explore Specialized Support
If you are seeking Lewy body dementia support or frontotemporal dementia care in Sierra Madre, we invite you to see how The Kensington Sierra Madre tailors care to unique needs.
Contact The Kensington Sierra Madre to schedule a tour, meet our team, and discover how our expertise and compassion can make a difference for your loved one.