Rumer Willis Embraces Genetic Testing as a Proactive Tool Following Father’s Dementia Diagnosis

In the wake of her father Bruce Willis’ public journey with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Rumer Willis is championing the importance of medical proactivity. The actress, daughter of Willis and Demi Moore, recently shared that she has begun undergoing genetic testing to gain a clearer picture of her long-term health risks.

Speaking in a candid interview with PEOPLE, Rumer Willis revealed that she recently participated in an APOE genetic test—a screening used to help assess an individual’s genetic predisposition for developing Alzheimer’s disease. While acknowledging the emotional weight of such medical exploration, she emphasized that the pursuit of knowledge outweighs the fear.

“It’s terrifying to get answers sometimes,” Rumer admitted. “Obviously, there are genetic things in my family. Not just dementia, I’ve had some family members who have had breast cancer and family members who have had different things.”

Despite the anxiety that can accompany diagnostic testing, the 35-year-old actress views the data as an essential empowerment tool. By equipping herself with detailed health information, she feels better prepared to navigate her future and engage in more precise, informed consultations with her physicians.

“I think when you have information, it’s power,” she noted. “You can’t gaslight me about what’s happening.”

This shift toward preventative health is not entirely new for the actress; she stated that she has prioritized her well-being for years, viewing health as a fragile asset that is often overlooked until it begins to decline. “I think health is one of those things that we take for granted until we don’t have it,” she explained. “If you are taking small steps right now to be proactive about it, you might not have to have such a steep fall off the cliff as you get older.”

The conversation around the Willis family’s health has remained at the forefront of public interest since they first shared that Bruce Willis was struggling with aphasia, a condition that impairs communication. In 2023, the family confirmed a more specific diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, a progressive neurological disorder. Since then, the family has remained a united front, frequently sharing updates on the actor’s condition while simultaneously working to raise broader public awareness for FTD.

Rumer’s decision to pursue genetic testing reflects a growing trend among families with known health histories to use modern medical advancements as a roadmap for longevity. By addressing potential health challenges head-on, the actress hopes to maintain her quality of life and inspire others to engage in proactive health management rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.