Emma Heming Willis remains firm about the choices she makes for Bruce Willis’s care. His family announced in 2022 that he was leaving acting due to aphasia, and by early 2023 he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Emma has since spoken openly about their challenges and her role as his primary caregiver.

In an interview with Michael Strahan on “Good Morning America,” she explained why Bruce now lives in a separate, nearby residence — a decision she also describes in her book “The Unexpected Journey.” She previously said in a Diane Sawyer special that Bruce lives apart from the family because it is best for “his safety and well-being.” Speaking to PEOPLE, she admitted the move “was the hardest thing,” but necessary because his condition “requires a calm and serene atmosphere.” The home is fully adapted for constant care, while their daughters can “enjoy being kids” without ongoing stress. Emma said, “Everything just feels a lot calmer, more at ease now.”

Strahan noted that their decision “kind of created a debate online.” Emma expected this, saying, “I knew it would,” but stressed it “was the safest and best decision – not just for Bruce, but also for our two young girls.” She added, “it’s really not up for a debate… I’m not gonna take a vote on that.”

Addressing criticism, she said, “caregivers are so judged,” and reminded people that dementia looks different in every home: “If you’ve seen one case of dementia, it’s one case of dementia.”

Her mindset shifted after Bruce’s neurologist warned that “sometimes caregivers die before their loved ones.” She said, “I need to get help… I really needed permission for someone to tell me that it’s okay to get help.” Emma hopes her book encourages caregivers to look after themselves so they can continue caring for the ones they love.