When Bruce Willis made the difficult decision to retire from acting in March 2022, his family revealed the cause: aphasia, a language impairment. By February 16, 2023, they clarified that his condition had progressed into a more specific diagnosis—frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The global attention this brought has helped shine a spotlight on a disease that can strike anyone, at any age.
FTD often affects younger adults and presents subtly. In fact, it is the most common form of dementia in individuals under the age of 60. Because it doesn’t typically begin with memory loss, it often goes undiagnosed in its early stages.
As Bruce’s story shows, it can begin with speech changes or subtle behavioural shifts—often dismissed early on. He might have looked like an invincible action hero, but his diagnosis reminds us: dementia doesn’t discriminate.
What is frontotemporal dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia is a type of dementia that targets the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain—the regions in charge of language, behaviour, decision-making and emotional control. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which typically begins with memory loss, FTD may first manifest as changes in personality, speech and social conduct.
Aphasia—the difficulty with speaking or understanding—was the first clue in Bruce Willis’ journey. His family later confirmed that what initially seemed like isolated language issues had evolved into FTD, a broader neurodegenerative condition.
First signs of frontal lobe dementia
Recognising early signs of FTD can be challenging. Loved ones may notice:
- Difficulty finding words or forming sentences (aphasia)
- A marked reduction in emotional responsiveness or empathy
- Asking the same questions repeatedly
- Impulsive or socially inappropriate actions
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
In Bruce’s case, his family—especially his daughter Tallulah—spoke of a seemingly subtle unresponsiveness and dullness; what looked like “lost interest” turned out to be early signals of cognitive decline.
His wife, Emma Heming Willis, initially attributed his changing speech to a childhood stutter, unaware it could be a symptom of something more sinister. As she later said, ‘FTD whispers, it doesn’t shout’—and many early symptoms are indeed easy to miss.
The difference between Alzheimer’s dementia and frontal lobe dementia
The term “dementia” is often used loosely, but not all dementias are the same.
| Feature | Typical Alzheimer’s | Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) |
| Initial symptom | Memory loss | Speech and behaviour changes |
| Common age affected | 65 and above | Often 60s or younger |
| Behavioural changes | Less common early on | Common early signs |
| Memory impairment | Early and prominent | Memory is often unaffected early |
Individuals with FTD may struggle with judgement, empathy, social niceties, or experience compulsive routines or disinhibition. Since memory is often preserved in early-stage FTD, it can be misattributed to stress, mid-life crisis or depression, which is why early screening is essential.
How to detect mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
Mild cognitive impairment refers to subtle but noticeable changes in cognitive abilities—such as memory, attention or reasoning—that go beyond normal ageing, yet don’t interfere significantly with daily life.
However, MCI can be an early warning sign: individuals with MCI are at increased risk of developing dementia. This is why early detection is crucial.
Nanyang Technological University’s Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) has developed ReCOGnAIze™, a tablet-based, AI-powered screening tool for mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a stage that may precede dementia.
ReCOGnAIze™ is explicitly designed to detect MCI, identifying red flags before they become roadblocks. By recognising these shifts early, clients gain precious time to take meaningful steps—whether that’s improving brain-healthy habits, undergoing further assessments, or creating a support plan with loved ones and professionals.
It comprises four neuroscientific games that assess working memory, executive function, attention and decision-making. Built on more than 125,000 hours of research, it achieves almost 90% accuracy in detecting MCI—all in just 15 minutes. Rather than expensive MRIs and multi-hour neuropsych assessments, ReCOGnAIze™ offers a fast, affordable and accurate way to screen for early cognitive changes.
The ReCOGnAIze test is available in Singapore through NTU’s spin-off Gray Matter Solutions and is also offered at Prologue. We believe in supporting wellness at every stage of life—staying two steps ahead of whatever hurdles may come, with clarity, care and confidence.
How to test for dementia or frontotemporal dementia
The ReCOGnAIze process is simple:
- Screening session on a tablet, in a calm, private space.
- Complete four brief interactive games targeting different brain domains.
- A doctor will review your results with you.
- If early cognitive impairment is indicated, we offer holistic follow-up support: lifestyle planning, further assessments, and tailored recommendations.
ReCOGnAIze™ is non-invasive, quick, and requires no prior preparation—making it ideal for early dementia screening in Singapore.
There’s no prep required, no need to disrobe, and it’s a one-off, convenient test you can complete in minutes. It’s never been easier to take charge of your brain health.
Who should consider a dementia test in Singapore?
We encourage anyone to consider testing if they:
- Notice subtle memory lapses, difficulty focusing, or language issues.
- Have a family history of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
- Work in demanding, high-stress environments.
- Wish to take proactive steps to protect their brain health.
Early screening through ReCOGnAIze™ helps uncover subtle brain changes long before symptoms become apparent. It offers an opportune window of time to take preventive action, gain peace of mind, and stay in control of your cognitive health.
What happens after the ReCOGnAIze™ test?
If your results show signs of mild cognitive impairment, your doctor will walk you through a tailored care plan—always at your pace, and always with kindness. We understand how daunting this can feel.
Whether you need further testing, practical advice on lifestyle shifts, or just space to process the news, we’re here for you with warmth, clarity and compassion.
Can frontotemporal dementia be reversed or avoided?
Regrettably, FTD cannot be cured or reversed. There is no pharmacological treatment equivalent to Alzheimer’s therapies, as FTD does not primarily affect the cholinergic system.
Studies show that a Mediterranean-style diet is associated with up to 30% lower risk of cognitive disorders like AD, mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Furthermore, regular exercise has been found to boost brain function and may cut dementia risk by up to 20%.
A 2024 U.S. POINTER trial studied over 2,100 older adults aged 60–79 who were at risk for cognitive decline due to factors like poor diet, inactivity, family history, or cardiovascular risk.
Participants were randomly assigned to two groups:
- Structured intervention group: Received regular health coaching, cognitive training, and clinical reviews over two years. They attended 38 sessions, had online brain-training tasks, and even received rebates for brain-friendly foods like blueberries.
- Control group: Received general wellness information and met a few times annually.
It was found that those in the structured lifestyle programme showed improvements in memory, attention, and thinking speed—demonstrating that multi-domain interventions can protect brain health and potentially delay dementia onset.
The power of early awareness
Many clients worry that testing might confirm their worst fears. But putting off a dementia test doesn’t delay the condition—it only postpones the support that could make a difference. In reality, early screening provides relief, not fear: it tells you what’s going on and what you can do next.
Bruce Willis’ journey reminds us that dementia often begins quietly and almost unnoticeably. His family’s public statement highlighted that FTD “can strike anyone” and underscored the need for greater awareness and research.
Early screening helps demystify symptoms, reduce stigma, and give patients agency. Understanding the difference between normal ageing and early cognitive decline empowers families to take control of their mental wellness sooner.
Don’t ignore the whispers—Screen with ReCOGnAIze™ at Prologue
Frontotemporal dementia may not be reversible—but early detection gives you something just as powerful: choice, clarity, and time. When you know what’s happening, you can plan and take action.
And the best part is that you don’t have to face it alone. At Prologue, our ReCOGnAIze test is quick, non-invasive, and backed by science. It’s a simple first step that could make all the difference.
But we don’t stop at screening. Prologue also offers personalised health coaching—including nutritional guidance—to help you support your brain health in everyday life.
Book your ReCOGnAIze test today and give your mind the same care you’d give your heart and body. Your future self will thank you, as will your loved ones.