Emma Heming says ‘holidays can be hard for families of those with dementia’, following Bruce Willis’ diagnosis; expert weighs in | Feelings News

The psychological impact of a person’s ill health is equally challenging for the family. Author Emma Heming, in an interview, spoke along the same lines when she shared her “different” approach to Chrmas ever since her husband, actor Bruce Willis’s, dementia diagnosis. “It’s joyous. It’s just different … Bruce loved Chrmas, and we love celebrating it with him. It just looks different, so we’ve kind of adapted to that,” she told People.
She also pointed out that “holidays can be hard” for the families of those with dementia, reflecting the emotional and psychological challenges a family goes through.
How intense is the impact on families?
Dr S. Marceline, Professor, School of Liberal and Creative Arts, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, told that the dominant responses of a family upon learning about the disease are shock, fear, denial, and profound anxiety. “As reality settles, these emotions evolve into chronic stress, anticipatory grief, guilt and a profound sense of ambiguous loss—the loved one is physically present but gradually losing cognitive and emotional connection.”
He added that caregivers often experience burnout, emotional fatigue and frustration as responsibilities intensify. The family’s journey becomes one of constant adaptation, recalibration of expectations and searching for ways to maintain connection despite diminishing communication. “Dementia creates a continuous cycle of loss and adjustment that families must navigate psychologically.”
However, despite the challenges, Emma is continuing to “find joy.”
“Life goes on. It just goes on. Dementia is hard, but there is still joy in it. I think it’s important that we don’t paint such a negative picture around demenita. We are still laughing. There is still joy. It just looks different,” she said in the interview.
From a clinical perspective, how can families cultivate moments of joy or normalcy while navigating the grief?
Clinically, it is entirely possible and necessary to cultivate joy even within a degenerative condition, said Dr Marceline. “ focusing on the person’s remaining abilities, families can create meaningful emotional moments. Lening to familiar music, browsing old photo albums, or celebrating small milestones helps establish comfort, continuity and emotional grounding.”Story continues below this ad
He added that therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, emotional flexibility, and present-centred engagement encourage families to find joy that coexs with grief. “Acceptance allows loved ones to appreciate small gestures, shared laughter and quiet companionship. This strengthens resilience and preserves a sense of normalcy.”
Caregiving often changes relationship dynamics — spouses become caregivers, children take on adult responsibilities. How can families adapt to these shifting roles without losing their sense of identity?
Dr Marceline explained that changing caregiving roles can be emotionally burdensome. Clear communication about role-sharing, expectations and emotional needs prevents overload. When responsibilities are dributed, stress is reduced.
“Caregivers must sustain their personal identity engaging in hobbies, nurturing social connections and practising self-care. Support systems—such as therapy, caregiver groups, and respite care — offer validation and reduce emotional strain. Understanding that caregiving is a shared, compassionate journey helps families maintain balance and view role changes as expressions of love rather than obligation,” he concludes.