The late Sean Connery faced a challenging battle with dementia in the final years leading up to his passing.
His wife, Micheline Roquebrune, has openly shared the difficulties they endured as a result of the disease.
In a heartfelt gesture earlier this year, Roquebrune generously donated $1 million to a global dementia charity founded by Sir Jackie Stewart, a close friend of Sean's.
Reflecting on the profound impact of dementia on Sean, she expressed gratitude for the critical research efforts being undertaken in this field.
Connery passed away peacefully in his sleep beside Micheline in the Bahamas in October 2020.
The details from his death certificate, obtained by TMZ, revealed that he succumbed to “respiratory failure” triggered by pneumonia, advanced age, and an irregular heartbeat.
However, those who knew him intimately disclosed that he grappled with dementia during the two years preceding his demise.
In an interview with the Mail on Sunday, Roquebrune candidly expressed, “It was no life for him.”
She recounted the toll dementia took on Sean, emphasizing that his final wish was to depart without any commotion or distress.
Dementia encompasses a range of symptoms resulting from diminished brain function, with causes such as Alzheimer's disease and stroke.
Jackie Stewart, a close confidant of Connery and a three-time F1 world champion, shared insights on the challenges Sean faced due to dementia during an appearance on Good Morning Britain in November 2020.
Stewart lamented the prolonged discomfort Sean endured, underscoring the devastating nature of the illness.
Reflecting on the impact of Roquebrune's contribution to his charity Race Against Dementia, Stewart expressed deep appreciation for the support from the Connery family.
He highlighted the significance of ongoing research efforts, facilitated by dedicated researchers like those sponsored by his foundation, in advancing our understanding of dementia.
Recent studies suggest that medications typically used to manage ADHD may hold promise in alleviating dementia symptoms, particularly apathy, which can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with the condition.
While these drugs show potential benefits for brain function, researchers caution about potential adverse effects, urging careful consideration and monitoring to mitigate risks associated with their use.
