Documents and Dementia
Bruce Willis’ family recently announced he has frontotemporal dementia. The actor just celebrated his 68th birthday. For most people, dementia is associated with advanced age. To many, Willis’ condition was surprising given his age, but not so much for me.
My best friend in high school began to lose words and seem confused while only in his 50s. During our last visit together, he acknowledged being ill but did not share the details. Yet, I know he was suffering from an impairment. The conversation was limited. His demeanor was sweet but he seemed distracted. At age 59 he died due to complications of frontotemporal dementia.
Emma Heming Willis, the wife of Bruce, has spoken openly about his illness and the challenges. “It’s important that you see all sides of this,” she said, as she continues to raise awareness about his condition. Willis retired from acting in 2022 citing a diagnosis of aphasia, which causes speech difficulties. His cognitive abilities were diminishing.
Willis’ condition is rare. However, human beings have imperfect bodies that wear down with time. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in ten American adults have a cognitive disability affecting their ability to make decisions. Cognitive disabilities result in serious difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
Attorneys prepare clients for the financial and medical challenges of cognitive impairment such as dementia. We draft healthcare powers of attorney to name an agent to make medical decisions for incapacitated persons. We offer financial powers of attorney to name representatives who can manage funds.
I have often told clients that you are more likely to become disabled than to die in any given year. With that knowledge, the power of attorney documents is essential for every person. Perhaps Bruce Willis’ story is a reminder to everyone to obtain powers of attorney if they don’t already have them. For those who have such documents, please revisit and update them regularly.
Evan J. Krame
