Alan Alda, the celebrated actor best known for his role in the iconic television series ‘M*A*S*H,’ recently shared candid insights about life as he marks his 90th year. Born on January 28, 1936, Alda has been a prominent figure in entertainment for decades, recognised not only for his acting talent but also for his openness regarding personal challenges.
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During a recent event titled “Alan Alda, Joy Behar and Roger Rosenblatt in Conversation: More Rules for Aging,” held at 92NY in New York City, Alda reflected on the realities of growing older. He amusingly noted that the true sign of his aging dawned on him when all three of his daughters—Eve, Elizabeth, and Beatrice—became eligible for Medicare. His daughters are now in their sixties, with Eve aged 67, Elizabeth at 65, and Beatrice at 64.
Alda, who has been married to his wife Arlene since 1957, reflected on their enduring bond, playfully recalling how they first connected over a mishap at a party. The couple’s light-hearted storytelling reveals a strong foundation built on shared experiences and laughter.
In his remarks, Alda suggested that the perception of age is often external, shaped by the world around us. “I don’t count how old I am by the number of years I’ve lived,” he remarked. Instead, he quipped that age is measured by how often others offer their assistance, implying that age is as much about perception as it is about the calendar.
The actor has also navigated the challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease, a diagnosis he publicly revealed in 2018 after initially being diagnosed in 2015. Despite the difficulties posed by the condition, Alda has continued to act, supported by Arlene, who has been by his side for over six decades.
During the conversation at 92NY, Alda recounted what was a memorable celebration of his milestone birthday earlier this year. He fondly remembered a dinner out where a waiter presented him with a cupcake and led the patrons in singing ‘Happy Birthday’ in a playful manner. “They kind of let you know,” he mused, reflecting on the way age is celebrated in society.
Alda’s grandson, Jake Alda Coffey, shared a heartfelt post on social media to commemorate his grandfather’s special day, declaring him to be a significant role model in his life. The birthday gathering, which included a noteworthy rum cake, was described as a low-key but joyful event, echoing the familial warmth that surrounds Alda.
In a conversation with fellow attendees, renowned author Roger Rosenblatt inquired about what aspects of his life brought Alda satisfaction upon reflection. The actor expressed a keen interest in embracing reality as it is, even when facing adversity. He candidly acknowledged that living with Parkinson’s has transformed his daily routine into a puzzle-solving game, where he finds pleasure in tackling the challenges that arise, such as figuring out how to dress without assistance.
In a light-hearted nod to his circumstances, Alda pointed out that his experience with Parkinson’s has turned a part-time struggle into what he describes as almost a full-time endeavour. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of humour throughout it all, demonstrating resilience in the face of personal challenges.
Additionally, Alda also shared his experiences with face blindness—an inability to recognise familiar faces, which adds another layer of complexity to his daily interactions. This condition, known clinically as prosopagnosia, influences his approach to life and relationships, further highlighting the array of obstacles he navigates.
Despite these challenges, Alda remains optimistic, remarking, “Almost every day I’m finding a new way to do something,” which he likens to a game. The actor’s ability to find joy and a sense of achievement in overcoming everyday hurdles is inspiring, suggesting that even in difficult times, humour and creativity can lead to a fulfilling life.
It is evident that Alan Alda continues to exemplify strength and adaptability in his life journey. As he continues to embrace the joys and trials of his 90th year, he stands as a testament to the power of resilience, laughter, and love in facing the uncertainties of aging and health.