Is this my future?

[sayerville]

My Dad died with DLB in 2010, my Mum with Frontal Lobal Dementia in 2015 and my younger brother with Praecox Dementia a month ago he was only 50. I know Praecox is another word for scrizophenia but it's still a brain disorder.
I am very worried about my future and each time I forget something I question myself. I am 55, Mum passed at 80 and Dad 76.
I know Dementia is common but I realise I have a very high chance of getting this and I feel sick about it having watched them deteriorate I am scared. Should I have genetic counselling?

I'm really sorry to hear this sayerville and equally sorry that you had no replies to such a heartfelt request. I can understand your fears. Do you think genetic counselling would help?

My dad got dementia in his 60s, and every time I can't remember a name or word I start to panic. It's very scary

I think that even with the potential for carrying a gene associated with dementia there are also an awful lot of other factors that can go into dementia. Lifestyle can have a lot of influence on dementia.
I can't help thinking the huge amounts of lead in petrol years ago could pop up as being one of the environmental factors ( thats one of my theories!) - its not all in the genes. But I totally understand your worry - my husband keeps his fears quite hidden regarding his father's dementia.
There really isn't enough research into the causes of so maybe as a way of helping yourself and others you could volunteer to take part in research? At least that way with researchers keeping an eye on you over the years you can feel supported?
Its just a thought - and I know it may not be the right thing for you.... There is also the FTD Support Forum you can join and I'm sure you'll be able to discuss all your worries on there with people who have gone through very similar situations. xx

If you're still around, @sayerville, I'd say it's a good idea to talk to your GP about it and either seek genetic counselling (and it doesn't necessarily involve having genetic tests done), or generic counselling to deal with your feelings about the risk, and how to approach this.

And, yes, AFAIK, lifestyle factors also influence development of dementia. It can be important to keep mentally active, as well as physically active.