Bruce Willis Unaware of His Dementia, Reveals Wife Emma Heming
According to Emma Heming Willis, her husband Bruce Willis is unaware of his dementia diagnosis. The 70-year-old actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a revelation made by his family in 2023. This came just a year after they announced he was stepping away from his acting career due to aphasia.
Understanding Bruce Willis’ Health Condition
Emma, who has been married to Willis since 2009, has taken on the role of his primary caregiver. In a recent interview with NewsNation, she provided insights into Willis’ condition, indicating he is “doing OK” considering the challenges posed by this “really unkind disease.” She also discussed the perspectives shared in her memoir, The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path.
The Impact of FTD on His Awareness
Heming Willis explained that it could be a blessing that Bruce does not recognize his health decline. She noted, “It’s not denial; this is just a part of the disease.” She expressed gratitude that he hasn’t grasped the concept of having FTD, which affects his communication and behavior without robbing him of recognition of his loved ones.
- FTD symptoms include:
- Slow or stiff movements
- Difficulty with speech
- Personality changes
- Muscle weakness
Although Willis may struggle to express his feelings verbally, Heming Willis asserts that their connection transcends words. “We don’t need words,” she stated. “We have a very deep connection.”
Navigating Family Dynamics
The couple has two daughters, Mabel Ray and Evelyn Penn, aged 13 and 11, who are also adapting to their father’s condition. Emma noted that while they miss their dad and lament lost milestones, they are resilient. She remains hopeful for their emotional recovery, admitting that they are all learning together.
Living Arrangements and Care
Recently, Emma faced criticism for deciding to move Bruce to a separate one-story home, designed specifically for his care, which is located near their family residence. In response, she explained her rationale, emphasizing the need for a “calm and serene atmosphere” for Willis to thrive. She stated, “You have to do what’s right for your family dynamic and what’s right for your person.”
By prioritizing their family’s emotional well-being, she believes this arrangement has opened up Bruce’s world while being supportive of their overall family structure. As they navigate these challenges, Emma remains committed to loving and caring for him in the best way possible.
