Real People Real Stories
Young Adult Carers and Rare Dementia
Many young adults find themselves in the unexpected role of caring for a parent living with a rare dementia such as Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).
This experience can be deeply challenging; balancing study, work, family, young dependent children and other relationships. While their journey is unique, young carers often share the need for understanding, connection, and practical support.
The AFTDA would like to thank Nikki Zimmermann at Rare Dementia Support in the UK, who put together this fabulous video and have kindly allowed us to share it.
Australians living with Frontotemporal dementia
Bruce Willis
diagnosed with FTD
Emma Hemming Willis releases new book
The Unexpected Journey is currently available on Audible Australia and sold through major booksellers
On February 16, 2023 it was announced that American actor Bruce Willis had been diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia. Willis’ family released a comprehensive and touching statement through the American FTD Association. In their statement, the Willis family thanked the public for their support, and highlighted the devastating impact that FTD can have, particularly when language difficulties are the main symptom, as is the case with Bruce Willis. They also wished to highlight that there is a need for more awareness and research of FTD so that others may not only understand but may also be helped through a diagnosis of FTD.
We are grateful to both Willis and his family for sharing this important news, as it will help to spread awareness about Frontotemporal dementia. We extend our support to the Willis family as they share this important news and continue in the journey with FTD.
The Willis family statement can be read here.
Professor Olivier Piguet of the Australian FTD Association was recently interviewed by Channel 10 on the diagnosis of Bruce Willis. Watch Prof Olivier comment on Bruce Willis’ diagnosis here.