Alan Alda Talks About Living with Parkinson’s Disease

Alan Alda, the iconic star of “M*A*S*H,” has been open about his battle with Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis in 2015. At 89, he faces additional challenges, including a form of blindness called prosopagnosia, which makes it hard for him to recognize others.

In a recent conversation, Alda mentioned to People Magazine that managing his illness has become nearly a full-time job, involving constant problem-solving and adjustments. He stated, “I’m always looking for interesting side solutions,” describing the process almost like a game. He finds joy in tackling these small, everyday challenges, which gives him a sense of accomplishment even in tough circumstances.

Alda continues to act; he recently had a cameo in Tina Fey’s Netflix adaptation of “The Four Seasons,” and there are plans for a second season. He humorously noted that in the show, his character often shares advice from his wife, a dynamic that resonates with his own marriage to Arlene, which has lasted an impressive 68 years.

Reflecting on his relationship, Alda quipped, “The secret to marriage is a short memory.” He emphasized the importance of being present and attentive in a relationship. He fondly recalled how he and Arlene first met at a party in 1956, bonding over a mishap with a dropped cake. “There was something special about sharing food and laughter,” he recalled, noting that they still enjoy each other’s sense of humor today.

Despite the difficulties presented by Parkinson’s, Arlene remains a steadfast partner. Alda mentioned that sometimes he struggles with tasks that require fine motor skills, and she often helps, which he appreciates deeply. “I always say ‘Thank you,’” he added, expressing pride in their relationship.

Looking back at his career, Alda talked about the pressure surrounding the final episode of “M*A*S*H.” He wanted to ensure it resonated with fans and depicted the emotional toll of war accurately. He shared how the finale was approached with the intent to show that everyone carries some form of wound from their experiences.

Alda also recalled the unexpected challenges during the filming, including having to adapt the script due to a fire at their location. “It was a scramble, but we managed to keep things authentic,” he explained.

His thoughts on relationships and the ups and downs of life highlight a worthwhile perspective: living with grace, humor, and perhaps a bit of patience. As he navigates his journey with Parkinson’s, Alda continues to reflect on love, memory, and the simple moments that bring joy. He believes that differing opinions in a marriage are normal, which can lead to a deeper understanding of one another, even in moments of disagreement.