Moonlighting creator Glenn Gordon Caron recently discussed Bruce Willis’ condition after being diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) earlier this year.
Caron revealed to the New York Post that he makes an effort to visit the 68-year-old Die Hard actor every month, maintaining a casual relationship with his wife, Emma Heming Willis, and their three older children.
Describing the impact of the disease on Willis, Caron emphasized how it has affected his ability to communicate, likening it to perceiving life through a screen door.
Despite this, Caron noted that Willis still recognizes him during visits, albeit struggling with verbal communication.
Formerly known for his love of life and zest for living each day to the fullest, Willis now faces challenges in expressing himself and engaging in activities he once enjoyed, such as reading.
In a recent appearance on the Today show, Emma Heming Willis shared her uncertainty about whether Bruce is fully aware of his health condition, highlighting the emotional toll that dementia takes on both the diagnosed individual and their family members.
Frontotemporal dementia encompasses various brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes, leading to symptoms such as speech difficulties, emotional changes, and shifts in personality due to the atrophy of these brain regions.
The progressive nature of FTD results in worsening symptoms over time, typically manifesting between the ages of 40 and 65, although it can impact individuals at a younger age, making it the most common form of dementia for those under 60.
Recognizing the challenges associated with diagnosing FTD, Susan Dickinson of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) highlighted the complexity of identifying the condition due to its overlap with other disorders like depression, Alzheimer’s, or movement diseases such as Parkinson’s or ALS.
While medical professionals continue to learn more about FTD, the delayed diagnosis and potential misdiagnoses contribute to the prolonged journey toward understanding and managing the disease’s progression in affected individuals.
Emma reflected on the bittersweet revelation of Bruce’s diagnosis, acknowledging the importance of coming to terms with the situation despite the pain it brings, underscoring the significance of awareness and acceptance in navigating the challenges posed by FTD.
