An expert has explained the impact of dementia on behavior, focusing on Bruce Willis, who publicly shared his diagnosis in 2023.
The 70-year-old actor is battling frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a less common form of dementia compared to Alzheimer’s disease. The term ‘frontotemporal’ pertains to the brain’s frontal lobes and temporal lobes, which are predominantly affected.
Willis, renowned for his roles in Die Hard and The Sixth Sense, has received an outpouring of support from fans, while his family frequently updates the public on his condition.
In a recent interview with ABC News, Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, revealed that Bruce has moved out of their family home, which he shared with Emma and their children, Mabel, 13, and Evelyn, 11.
Emma assured that Bruce remains in ‘really great health overall,’ noting his mobility, but acknowledged that his brain is ‘failing him’.
Language loss is becoming evident, and Emma mentioned that the family now cherishes fleeting moments when Bruce’s true personality shines through.
“It’s his laugh, right? He has such a hearty laugh,” she remarked. “And sometimes you’ll see that twinkle in his eye, or that smirk, and I just get transported.”
These moments, however, are fleeting and vanish as quickly as they come.
As the family adjusts to Bruce’s condition, Emma explained that his move to a separate residence was one of their toughest decisions.
Emma emphasized that Bruce would prioritize their daughters’ needs over his own.
“He would want them to be in a home that was more tailored to their needs, not his needs,” she stated.
Simon Wheeler, Senior Knowledge Officer for Health at Alzheimer’s Society, explained that FTD primarily disrupts thinking and language, but it can also alter mood, personality, and behavior.
FTD is categorized into two main types: the behavioral variant, affecting cognition and behavior, and primary progressive aphasia, which impairs language abilities. Willis is dealing with the latter type.
Wheeler highlighted that changes in behavior and personality, along with language difficulties, are often the initial indicators of FTD.
Behavioral variant FTD can manifest as noticeable changes in a person:
Primary progressive aphasia may result in different changes in an individual:
According to Wheeler, individuals with behavioral variant FTD might not be aware of their dementia or altered behavior.
Recognizing this lack of awareness can assist loved ones in coping with someone with FTD, helping them to understand that any potentially hurtful behavior is unintentional.
The expert also provided guidance on interacting socially with someone affected by FTD, advising: