Bruce Willis’s Daughter Says She Misses ‘A Different Version’ Of The Actor As Reality Of His Dementia Struggle Hits ‘Hard’
Rumer Willis recently shared an update on her father, Bruce Willis‘ dementia battle, admitting that she experiences “hard” days navigating the current version of him.
This actress is taking a more proactive approach to her own health after watching her father’s frontotemporal dementia diagnosis progress.
Rumer Willis also opened up about the complicated emotions that come with learning more about her own genetic risks.
Bruce Willis’ Daughter Admits Some Days Are ‘Hard’ For Her Amid His Health Struggles
Rumer partnered with Function, a health membership providing over 160 advanced lab tests, imaging, and specialized health assessments.
The actress was particularly drawn to the company’s APOE genetic test to evaluate her own risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease after witnessing her father’s frontotemporal dementia progress from the initial Aphasia diagnosis.
Speaking about the move on Instagram, Rumer noted how “hard” it has been coming to terms with her father’s new reality, admitting how much she misses the old him.
“I really miss my dad. I miss a different version of who he was,” she began. “There are some days that are just so hard. I try to prioritize being present with where he’s at now. The truth is, to be strong is learning to deal with both things at the same time.”
Rumer continued, “I did a test called the APOE, that tests for your risk of Alzheimer’s — which obviously is kind of important. I wanted to check it out because of my family history.”
She further shared that her results showed a “pretty average” score, explaining that this outcome indicates there is “some risk, but it is not crazy.”
The Actress Admits Genetic Testing Can Be ‘Terrifying’
5Rumer acknowledged that learning about potential genetic health risks can be frightening, especially given her family’s medical history.
While speaking about her decision to undergo advanced testing, she admitted that receiving such information can sometimes feel overwhelming.
“It’s terrifying to get answers sometimes,” Rumer told People Magazine, explaining that dementia is not the only health concern present in her family, as relatives have also dealt with breast cancer and other conditions.
Her father’s frontotemporal dementia diagnosis has encouraged her to explore genetic testing that could help determine her risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Rather than avoiding difficult information, Rumer appears determined to understand what it could mean for her future.
Rumer Willis Believes Knowing Her Health Risks Gives Her More Control
5Despite the fear that can accompany genetic testing, Rumer sees knowledge as a tool that can give her greater control over her health.
She explained that understanding whether she may be predisposed to certain conditions allows her to take steps that could potentially improve her health status.
“But I think when you have information, it’s power,” she said, adding that knowing her risks can encourage her to work on areas such as inflammation and heart health.
Rumer also appreciates being able to take concrete health data to her medical providers. She joked that having the information available means she can tell a doctor, “Hey, I actually have this data, so you can’t gaslight me about what’s happening.”
Bruce Willis’ Daughter Emphasizes The Importance Of Healthy Living
5Rumer’s focus on prevention extends beyond genetic testing. Even before Bruce’s diagnosis, she had been paying attention to her brain, gut and reproductive health and trying to make small changes that could benefit her over time.
She explained that these adjustments include taking supplements, avoiding perfumes and preparing food at home rather than relying heavily on takeout. While these choices may seem minor, Rumer believes they can contribute to a healthier lifestyle when practiced consistently.
“We are essentially under attack in this world that we live in. There’s just so many things that we’re constantly combating. And I don’t think it’s really an option anymore to not be proactive about it,” she said.
Her motivation is also deeply personal, as she wants her efforts to improve her chances of being present for her daughter for as long as possible.
Emma Heming Willis Talks About Husband Bruce Willis’ Health
5Emma Heming Willis, Bruce’s Wife has revealed some details about her husband’s health journey, she revealed that the actor’s condition initially appeared to be a change in his speech.
Bruce was diagnosed with aphasia in 2022 before his family announced the following year that his condition had progressed to frontotemporal dementia, or FTD, which primarily affects communication and behavior.
Heming recalled that Bruce’s changing speech did not immediately raise concerns about dementia because of his childhood stutter.
“Never in a million years would I think it would be a form of dementia for someone so young,” she told Town & Country in 2024. She also described the progression of the disease as difficult to pinpoint, saying, “FTD whispers, it doesn’t shout.”
In an August 2025 interview with Diane Sawyer, Heming said Bruce remained physically well despite the impact of the disease on his brain.
“Bruce is still very mobile. Bruce is in really great health overall; it’s just his brain that is failing him,” she explained, per Today.
She also cherishes the moments when glimpses of the Bruce she knows come through. Although those moments can disappear quickly, she said, “I’m grateful that my husband is still very much here.”
