Former talk show host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), conditions that have also affected actor Bruce Willis. Williams’ care team released a statement explaining the challenging decision to disclose her diagnosis, emphasizing the need for awareness and compassion regarding these conditions.
Aphasia, characterized by a loss of communication abilities, can significantly impair a person’s capacity to speak, write, or understand language. It often results from brain damage due to trauma, infections, tumors, or degenerative diseases like dementia, as noted by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Symptoms include difficulty finding words, disordered speech, and creating nonsensical words.
Williams received her diagnoses in 2023 from Weill Cornell Medicine, following previous health issues including Graves’ disease and lymphedema, and a stint in rehabilitation for alcohol abuse. Her care team noted that concerns about her cognitive abilities had been raised in recent years, particularly as she exhibited difficulties with speech and understanding financial matters.
Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders caused by protein buildups in the brain, primarily affecting individuals aged 45 to 64. FTD can lead to communication challenges as well as alterations in behavior, personality, and motor skills. Patients typically have a life expectancy of six to eight years post-diagnosis, with some cases being hereditary.
There are different types of FTD. For example, primary progressive aphasia (PPA), which Bruce Willis has, primarily impacts language abilities. Other variants may affect executive functions or motor neurons, leading to difficulties in movement and coordination.
Diagnosing FTD involves a comprehensive evaluation by a neurologist, which may include cognitive testing, MRI scans to assess brain atrophy, and PET imaging to examine brain function.
Currently, there are no treatments to slow FTD’s progression, but management strategies include medications to alleviate symptoms such as agitation and depression. Support from speech-language pathologists and participation in physical or occupational therapy can aid in maintaining quality of life.
As the disease progresses, patients are encouraged to engage in healthy living and remain socially active, which can enhance their overall well-being. Dr. Henry Paulson, an expert in the field, encourages patients to embrace their remaining skills and adapt creatively to their circumstances.