The 24th of September to the 1st of October marks the commencement of World Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) Awareness week. As part of this, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) has developed a week-long campaign with the aim of raising awareness of FTD, offering support to those affected, and igniting action to help in the effort of combating this disease.
So, what are the 8 steps AFTD are advocating during this week?
1. Sunday – Self Care
AFTD’s campaign kicks off with a message of self-care, highlighting the importance of caring for oneself. Whether you are a care provider, at-risk of developing FTD, or currently living with the disease, their website offers some positive daily steps you can take to support your own health.
2. Monday – Support
The support day encourages everyone to reach out to individuals living with FTD, or their care partners, offering an act of support that could help to brighten their day or lighten their load. It’s an opportunity to show compassion and solidarity, reminding them that they are not alone on this challenging journey.
3. Tuesday – Sustain
Tuesday is all about sustaining the organisations that serve the FTD community. By donating any amount to a trusted charity, you can play a role in ensuring that valuable services and support continue to be available to those who need them most.
4. Wednesday – Volunteer
Here they emphasise the importance of community involvement, encouraging anyone who can to volunteer in your local area. This could take the form of increasing community awareness, organising a caregiver support group meeting, or participating in a fundraising event.
5. Thursday – Advocate
Thursday is about advocacy. On this day, AFTD encourages you to engage with legislators and share why FTD matters to you.
6. Friday – Educate
Friday’s focus is education, which is essential for early diagnosis and better support for those with FTD. Check out their page for examples of ways you could educate those around you.
7. Saturday – Research
FTD research is important in the search for finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure, so, AFTD invites you to learn more about genetic FTD and clinical trials.
8. Sunday – Celebrate
The week wraps up by celebrating the lives of loved ones affected by FTD, as well as recognising those who have provided unwavering support. It’s a moment to reflect on the strength, resilience, and compassion within the FTD community.
To read more about the steps being promoted by the AFTD this week to raise awareness for FTD, see here.
Phoebe, on behalf of the FTD talk team.
Keep up to date on all things research by following us on twitter – @FTDtalk / @GENFI1
