Reporters had gathered outside the gated community where Actor Gene Hackman and his wife were found dead. The 95-year-old, a two-time Academy Award winner, was alone and had not made any calls or eaten meals. Medical experts suggested that due to his declining health and advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, Hackman may not have realized that his wife had passed away in their home where he was living. If he did realize, experts believe he likely experienced confusion and grief, repeatedly trying to wake her up before becoming distracted or overwhelmed by the disease. Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, had died from a rare virus about seven days before Hackman passed away from natural causes on February 18. The couple, along with one of their dogs, were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe home after a security check by neighbors revealed their bodies through a window. Initially deemed suspicious, the investigation found no foul play but highlighted the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease on mental function and memory. The medical examiner confirmed that Arakawa died from a rare virus, while Hackman’s death was due to heart disease exacerbated by his Alzheimer’s. It was suggested that Hackman may not have been aware of his wife’s passing due to the advanced stages of his Alzheimer’s, which impacted his ability to care for himself. The grim circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths shed light on the challenges faced by those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
The discussion at Western Medical Center revealed a potential reason why Hackman may have been unable to seek help from authorities. The expert explained that Alzheimer’s disease can leave patients in a state of emotional discomfort, hindered by an inability to take decisive action. Dr. Kelley emphasized that individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience feelings of worry or fear but struggle to execute typical problem-solving actions such as reaching out to others or seeking assistance. He noted that while patients still undergo emotional and physical experiences like pain, sadness, hunger, and thirst, they may find it challenging to identify and address these needs effectively. Dr. Kelley also pointed out that skipping meals could contribute to increased confusion and agitation among Alzheimer’s patients.
The tragic events surrounding the couple’s deaths, including the revelation that Hackman remained in the home for a week after his wife’s passing, have deeply impacted the Santa Fe community, where the couple resided for over two decades. Residents, like Jeffery Gomez, expressed shock and sorrow at the news, recalling Hackman’s presence in town, always donning a smile while driving various cars. Another resident, Linda, shared her empathy for the couple, drawing from her own experiences caring for her mother with dementia and highlighting the challenges faced by caregivers, even with support.
The incident has shed light on a growing issue faced by caregivers, as noted by behavioral scientist Laura N Gitlin, PhD. With an aging population and a diminishing pool of family caregivers, the burden on individuals caring for loved ones at home has intensified. Gitlin emphasized the importance of support systems for caregivers navigating complex decisions about transitioning their loved ones into alternative care arrangements. Concerned residents like Jeffery Gomez expressed bewilderment at the lack of intervention for the couple, underscoring the emotional toll of enduring such isolation.
The passing of Gene Hackman and his wife due to natural causes, including complications related to the hantavirus, marks the end of a chapter for the renowned actor known for his tough-guy roles in Hollywood.
