Bruce Willis is now living in a single-story home separate from his family as part of his dementia care, his wife Emma Heming Willis revealed in a new ABC special titled Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey. Emma called moving Bruce to this “second home” one of the hardest decisions she has faced since his diagnosis.
The Die Hard star was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023, after first being identified with aphasia less than a year earlier. Since stepping back from acting, updates on his health have been few and far between. Earlier this year, a source told In Touch that Bruce showed signs of declining appetite and weight loss, signs often linked to advancing dementia.
Emma described the challenges of managing his diet and overall care. “He doesn’t express hunger much,” she said, explaining the family’s efforts to ensure he eats foods to support health, not detract from it. She added that his ability to communicate is greatly diminished, and recognizing people has become difficult.
Speaking to ABC’s Diane Sawyer, Emma revealed the family decided some time ago to move Bruce into a separate, nearby home equipped to better meet his evolving needs. She explained this was partly driven by how noise and activity can agitate his condition, meaning the usual family home could no longer accommodate the playdates and sleepovers her daughters, Mabel Ray (13) and Evelyn Penn (11), once enjoyed.
“It was one of the hardest choices I had to make,” Emma shared. “But I knew Bruce would want our daughters to be in a home that fits their needs, not his.”
Despite the challenges, Emma spoke warmly about the new home, describing it as a place filled with love, care, laughter, and visits from friends who bring joy to Bruce’s days.
Emma also opened up about the earliest signs of Bruce’s illness as “alarming and frightening,” noting how someone once warm and engaged had gradually become more withdrawn. “He felt removed, a little cold—not like Bruce,” she said, reflecting on the sadness of watching her husband change.
Though Bruce’s brain is failing, Emma noted he remains physically mobile and that the family has found new ways to communicate with him. “The language is going, so we’ve had to adapt,” she said.
She expressed gratitude for the moments when Bruce still lights up, laughs heartily, or shows a sparkle in his eye. “We don’t have many days, but we cherish the moments,” she said.
Emma is also advocating for caregivers and raising awareness about FTD, which primarily impacts personality, behavior, and language in people under 60. She hopes that early diagnosis and support will help families facing similar struggles.
Emma and Bruce’s story continues to inspire compassion and understanding for those battling dementia and their loved ones.
