By Aliza Beth 
Emma Heming Willis says that if you ask her famous husband about his Hollywood era, he wouldn’t know what you’re talking about. Most days, he doesn’t remember his own name.
Bruce Willis (70) was an action star during the 90s and early 2000s. His career spans more than two decades. His memorable quote from Die Hard, “Yippee-ki-yay,” will forever be etched into pop culture history. The actor likely doesn’t recall saying it.
In 2022, Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a condition that impacts the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes. Changes in personality and emotional indifference are some of the symptoms, which is why his wife didn’t know something was wrong at first.
In her book, The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, Heming Willis documents her husband’s illness. She talks about the isolation and hopelessness she felt.
Initially, she took on the role of primary caregiver. It wasn’t sustainable. Eventually, the former model chose to move Willis to a separate home nearby with 24/7 care. Here, professional caregivers manage his advancing FTD.
While the actor may be apart from his family, Heming Willis still oversees his care and visits with the kids frequently.
Allow Them to Decide
Bruce Willis’s case is extreme, but the transition from independent living to home care was required.
As a healthcare provider, families may look to you for guidance when it’s time to rethink care for their elderly loved ones.
That move might not be as smooth as they hope. For many older adults, living independently is one of the final markers of self-reliance. Remove that, and you risk stripping away their sense of control over their own lives.
Depending on whether they are of sound mind, that choice is theirs to make. And even if dementia or Alzheimer’s has robbed them of deciding for themselves, the loss of freedom is a bitter pill to swallow.
Advise their loved ones to include them in the decision-making. Allow them to choose their caregivers, set schedules, and decide on routines. These small concessions give them a sense of control, says Psychology Today.
Choosing Professional Care
Some older individuals might choose a trusted family member as their caregiver. Or, you could suggest professional senior home care.
TruCare notes that most home care agencies strive to provide high-quality, compassionate support. Caregivers are carefully vetted and chosen not only for their professional credentials, but also for the personal qualities that make them a good fit for clients.
Dedication, empathy, and a commitment to their clients should be part of their emotional DNA. Most offer companion services, personal care, light housekeeping, and meal prep.
Start Slowly
A break in routine can be confusing for older adults. Suddenly, there’s a stranger in their home, moving things around.
To save their loved one from the upheaval, introduce in-home care services gradually. Start with a few times a week so the carer can build a rapport and trust.
Prep the Home
Small changes and thoughtful adjustments can go a long way in reducing the risk of falls and other accidents.
While home care services support a loved one’s safety, taking proactive steps early on is always better than waiting for something to go wrong.
If the caregiver has agreed to a live-in contract, create a private space for them to rest and keep personal items. A place that feels like home and is exclusively theirs.
Ensure high-foot traffic areas are clutter-free and well-lit. Late-night bathroom runs are more frequent among older adults, and an accident is the last thing anyone needs.
Lastly, secure walkways and rugs. Make sure smoke alarms and motion sensors are in working order. Also, for added peace of mind, recommend that the family install additional security measures.
Stick to a Routine
Never underestimate the power of a good routine. Consistency breeds familiarity and stability.
Stick to daily habits such as meal times, rest, and medication. The National Institute on Aging suggests engaging in various activities to keep the mind and body fresh. Walking, swimming, dancing, and joining an exercise class count.
Schedule time for hobbies such as reading, gardening, and visiting friends. All these acts help maintain their independence and cognitive function.
Let’s Talk About It
Communication is very NB. Encourage families to discuss feelings openly with their elderly loved ones.
They should be patient during the adjustment period. Change takes time and not without some pushback.
Most older adults want to be heard. They want to be seen. They want to know that their needs and feelings count. On the other end, the caregiver should engage their clients through conversations and activities. It creates a sense of companionship.
Establishing a real connection takes effort from both sides. And once that connection is formed, it could be the start of a beautiful friendship. All it requires is patience and time.