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Abstract Details

Disconnected: How Frontotemporal Degeneration Leads to Isolation Regardless of Residence
Aging, Dementia, and Behavioral Neurology
P6 - Poster Session 6 (5:00 PM-6:00 PM)
13-012
To examine the extent and nature of social isolation experienced by individuals with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) and their care partners, and to assess whether living arrangements or geographic settings influence these experiences.
FTD is the umbrella term for a group of rare neurodegenerative disorders affecting the frontal and temporal lobes, leading to progressive impairments in behavior, language, motor function, and cognition. These symptoms frequently contribute to profound social isolation, yet little is known about how isolation varies by living situation or community setting.
Data were collected through an anonymous survey via a direct-to-participant registry in February 2025. Respondents included individuals diagnosed with an FTD disorder (139), their spouses/partners (311), biological family members (112), caregivers (50), and others (17). Participants (N=629) were asked how often they felt socially isolated due to FTD symptoms, along with their residential setting (e.g., urban, suburban, rural, or facility-based). Responses were analyzed across living arrangements and geographic classifications.

Isolation was pervasive across all groups. Among caregivers, 61% reported feeling “always” or “often” isolated; among spouses/partners, 59% also experienced these levels. Of individuals diagnosed, 42% reported feeling “always” or “often” isolated, with an additional 32% reporting “sometimes.” No significant differences in isolation were observed across living arrangements or geographic settings. High levels of isolation were reported equally by those living alone, with family, or in care facilities, and across urban, suburban, rural, and remote environments. Contributing factors included communication difficulties, behavioral changes, and stigma surrounding FTD.

Social isolation is a widespread challenge for individuals with FTD and their care partners, independent of residence type. Interventions must address the underlying drivers of disconnection such as impaired communication, caregiver stress, and stigma rather than focusing solely on living arrangements. Inclusive strategies to foster meaningful engagement and strengthen support systems are critical to improving quality of life in this population.

Authors/Disclosures
Mary Krause
PRESENTER
Miss Krause has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of FTD Disorders Registry. Miss Krause has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care.
Carrie Milliard (FTD Disorders Registry) Carrie Milliard has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of FTD Disorders Registry, LCC. The institution of Carrie Milliard has received research support from NIH - PTE Mayo Clinic .
Robert Reinecker, BA Mr. Reinecker has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of FTD Disorders Registry.
Shana Dodge (Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration) Shana Dodge has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD).
Penny Dacks, PhD (AFTD) Penny Dacks has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.