FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA & THE CRIMINAL LEGAL SYSTEM: CARE PARTNER STORIES - Session - study findings and preliminary analysis

Sep 29, 2026

Innovation in Aging 2025, Vol. 9, No. S2 presents a study on the relationship between frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and the criminal legal system, where contact with people with dementia occurs regularly despite limited research. Findings focus on care partners’ perspectives after arrest, detention, arraignment, or incarceration. Preliminary analysis shows varied experiences shaped by individual circumstances, alongside common barriers stemming from difficulties obtaining an accurate diagnosis and limited criminal-legal awareness of FTD. Care partners use education, social capital, and advocacy to navigate effectively.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Background and Rationale

Study Design and Care Partner Perspective

Contact Points: Arrest to Incarceration

Preliminary Findings

Heterogeneous Experiences

Common Barriers

Coping and Navigation Strategies

Education, Social Capital, Advocacy

FAQs

Why is research on dementia and the criminal legal system described as limited?

The abstract notes that there is limited research on the connection between dementia and the criminal legal system, even though the system encounters people with dementia regularly.

How does frontotemporal dementia increase risk of criminal legal system interactions?

The abstract explains that FTD can involve behavioral symptoms that violate social norms and may be considered “criminal,” making people living with FTD more vulnerable to interactions, including with police.

What common barriers did care partners report despite diverse experiences?

Care partners reported common barriers related to challenges receiving a correct diagnosis and the criminal legal system’s lack of awareness and education about FTD.

Sep 29, 2026

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