Graduation Semester and Year

Summer 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Social Work

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Noelle L. Fields

Second Advisor

Kathy Siepker

Third Advisor

Jaclyn Kirsch

Abstract

Abstract

Background and Objective: Persons living with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) have the highest suicide risk among persons living with dementia, yet their experiences are often overlooked in research and practice. This scoping review aims to examine the literature on frontotemporal dementia and suicide, identify factors contributing to suicidal behavior, and explore potential treatment and prevention options.

Research Design and Methods: Five databases were systematically searched using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. Studies were selected if they included FTD and suicide.

Results: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Key findings highlighted include subtypes of FTD and suicide, risk factors in FTD and suicide, mental health conditions commonly occurring in FTD, and prevention and treatment methods. Instances of depression and other affective disorders were noted, alongside the characteristics and risk factors of suicide for the different subtypes of frontotemporal dementia.

Discussion and Implications: Findings underscore the need for prevention and treatment, family caregiver intervention, and the need for a tailored behavioral assessment for suicide in this population.

Keywords: Suicide, parasuicide, life-threatening behavior, frontotemporal lobe dementia, FTD

Keywords

frontotemporal dementia, FTD, suicide, suicidal ideation

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Available for download on Thursday, August 05, 2027

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