Frontotemporal Degeneration: Misdiagnosed and Misunderstood |
Summary: We think we understand what it means when someone is diagnosed with dementia. This course is designed to provide a basic overview of one of the lesser understood types of dementia, frontotemporal dementia or FTD. We will talk about how it differs from Alzheimer’s disease, why knowing the specific type of dementia matters, and how this fits into the work we do. Objectives:
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About the Speaker: Judy Bearer, LSW
For more than 30 years, Judy has served as a social worker in Northeast Ohio, dedicating her career to supporting others through mental health and long-term care challenges. However, nothing could have truly prepared her for the life-changing moment in 2020 when her own mother was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia (PPA), a form of FTD. The diagnosis had a profound impact on her entire family, challenging everything she thought she knew about dementia, caregiving, and the very relationships that defined her life.
From that day forward, Judy’s mission became clear. She continues to pour her heart into learning everything she can about the disease, determined to transform her personal journey into a source of strength for others. By combining her professional expertise with her lived experience, she works tirelessly to raise awareness and advocate for those impacted by FTD.
When Judy found AFTD and connected with people who truly understood, she felt a profound sense of belonging—like all the pieces had finally come together. Volunteering as an AFTD Ambassador fills her with hope and purpose, and she is committed to showing others that they are never alone. Even after her mother’s passing in 2024, her motto continues to reflect her determination: “This disease took my mother’s voice. I will not let it take mine.”"
REGISTRATION & CANCELLATION INFORMATION:
In-person class sizes are limited, so register early. Classes with low registrations may be canceled. If the class is canceled or moved, participants will be contacted via email at least 24 hours in advance.
Classes start and end on time. To ensure a quality experience for all, please log in (virtual events) or arrive (in-person events) at least 15 minutes prior to the class start time. No participants will be admitted to a training 10 minutes after it has started. Full participation is expected, no partial credit will be awarded. Hard copies of certificates will be mailed upon request. Replacement certificates will be issued for a $5.00 fee.
Refunds will be made ONLY for cancellations received three business days prior to the event. If received less than three days prior to the event, a credit can be issued for use at another program within the next 6 months. If notice of cancellation is not received before the date of the program, no refund will be issued. PLEASE NOTE: No shows will be charged the full registration fee.
For In-Person events, it is difficult to control room temperature to everyone's comfort level. We suggest you dress in layers that can be adaptable to warm and cool temperatures. For auditing purposes, complete first and last names, arrival and departure times must be logged.
Webinar CEUs will take place on Zoom during the designated times. The link to join the webinar session will be sent in your registration confirmation email as well as registration reminder emails. Please note: Certificates will be emailed within 1 week after the training so long as the virtual attendance has been verified and evaluation returned. Webinar participants will need a device capable of running Zoom and a strong internet connection and speakers during the entire CEU session.