Alan Alda Gives an Update on How He's Doing with Parkinson's: 'Tying Shoelaces Can Be a Challenge'

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo: John Nowak/Turner Entertainment Networks, Inc.

Alan Alda Rollout

Veteran actor Alan Alda hasn’t slowed down since he wasdiagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015.

In an email interview, Alda updated readers on his health and his post-MAS*H world — he nowhosts the podcast Clear + Vivid— and how he hopes to be remembered as well.

How are you feeling healthwise?I’m feeling good and charging ahead. Doing everything I can to slow the progression of Parkinson’s, which really can be slowed with work.

What’s been the biggest challenge since your diagnosis?Tying shoelaces can be a challenge with stiff fingers. Think of playing the violin while wearing mittens. The silver lining is that I keep getting more confident that I can always find a workaround.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s Double Helix Medals

How has it changed the way you look at your life?I’m more convinced than ever that life is adapting, adjusting and revising.

What makes you the happiest?Laughing with my wife.

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Alan Alda Rollout

Anything left on your bucket list?Kicking it.

How do you hope to be remembered?We can’t control how we’re remembered, so I don’t give it much thought. If I leave something behind that someone finds useful, that will be nice.

What are you most grateful for?Being here for a while.

source: people.com