Alan Alda Reveals Dream-Acting Was First Sign of Parkinson's
Actor Alan Alda, 90, disclosed that his initial Parkinson's symptom was REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, causing him to physically act out dreams. He described throwing a pillow at his wife, Arlene, while dreaming of an attack. This occurred when he was 79, years before his 2015 diagnosis. Alda emphasizes humor and connection in managing the condition, noting he has no current tremors or voice issues.
Key points
- Alda's first symptom was REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, not typical tremors.
- He physically acted out a dream of being attacked, hitting his wife with a pillow.
- The condition occurred when he was 79, preceding his 2015 diagnosis.
- Alda uses humor to cope, calling Parkinson's a 'hobby' rather than his identity.
- He relies on his wife for daily tasks like buttoning his shirt.
Background
Alda was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2015 but kept it private for three years. He has previously discussed his condition in relation to his work with the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science and his podcast 'Clear+Vivid'.
How outlets are covering it
Page Six and NY Post focus on the specific anecdote of the pillow-throwing incident as a rare early symptom. CBS News provides broader context on Alda's life, including his polio history, his mother's schizophrenia, and his philosophy on human connection and humor as coping mechanisms. All sources agree on the timeline and the nature of the symptom.
Why it matters
The story highlights that Parkinson's can present with atypical symptoms like REM Sleep Behavior Disorder before classic motor issues appear. It also underscores the importance of humor and acceptance in managing chronic neurodegenerative diseases.
What to watch
Alda will continue to manage his condition with the help of his wife and through adaptive strategies, while maintaining his public advocacy for clear communication in science and medicine.
- Alan Alda divulges ‘not that well-known’ sleep habit that led to Parkinson’s diagnosis pagesix.com
- Alan Alda on fighting Parkinson's with laughter CBS News
- Alan Alda Talks About Finding the ‘Humor’ in His Parkinson’s Diagnosis People.com
- Alan Alda, 90, Reveals the Strange Parkinson’s Symptom He Had Before a Tremor Men's Journal
- Alan Alda reveals the strange sleep habit that led to his Parkinson’s diagnosis — it ‘was not that well-known’ nypost.com
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