Emma Heming Willis shares the ‘hardest decision’ she made for her family

Emma Heming Willis has revealed that her husband, actor Bruce Willis, is now living in a separate home to manage his frontotemporal dementia, a decision she describes as one of the hardest she has made. This move was necessary to provide him with round-the-clock care and to create a safer environment tailored to his needs, while allowing their daughters to live in a home more suited to them. Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia more than three years ago, leading to his retirement from acting. His condition affects his language and behavior, requiring significant adjustments from his family. Emma Heming Willis, in an interview with Diane Sawyer for ABC’s special “Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey,” shared intimate details of their journey. Initially, Emma tried to handle everything alone, isolating the family to minimize noise and stress that could aggravate Bruce’s condition. She stopped hosting playdates and sleepovers for their daughters, Mabel, 13, and Evelyn, 11, fearing discomfort from other parents. This isolation became unsustainable, prompting her to seek more support. The decision to move Bruce to a second home was made some time ago. The one-story residence is designed to be safe and easy to navigate for him and his 24-hour care team. Emma emphasized that Bruce would have wanted this for their daughters, prioritizing their needs over his own. Despite the separation, the family remains closely connected. Emma visits daily for breakfast and dinner, and the home is filled with love, warmth, and frequent visits from friends and family. Bruce is described as still mobile and in good physical health, but his cognitive decline is evident in his diminishing language skills. The family has adapted their communication methods to connect with Bruce, who still shows affection and recognition through gestures like holding hands and hugging. Emma expressed a deep desire to have conversations with him about his feelings and well-being, highlighting the emotional toll of his condition. This revelation comes as Emma prepares to release a book, “The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path,” on September 9, which aims to support other caregivers. The ABC special is currently streaming on Hulu and Disney+, providing further insight into their experience. The situation underscores the challenges faced by families dealing with dementia, emphasizing the importance of support systems and adaptive strategies. Emma’s openness aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma, offering a roadmap for others in similar circumstances.