Tony Christie won the hearts of many with his worldwide hits like '(Is This the Way to) Amarillo', 'Las Vegas', and 'I Did What I Did for Maria'.

But it is the legendary singer-songwriter's latest announcement that has left fans worldwide heartbroken – the 79-year-old has been living with dementia.

Tony Christie opens up about his battle with dementia. Credit: Facebook/Tony Christie.

Tony Christie was diagnosed with a degenerative brain illness two years ago following a visit to his specialist. Tests revealed a small build-up of 'plaque' on his brain, and as a result, he was prescribed medication. Despite initial side effects, it has worked to slow the development of the condition.

The singer's wife, Sue, who has been by his side for 55 years, admits that she found it hard to comprehend the diagnosis. And even though the news does bring with it a certain amount of sadness, Tony and Sue say it has not affected their life together.

'I can't imagine it, and I don't think about it. I just think we will be together forever, and we will, whatever happens,' says 74-year-old Sue.

Tony is determined to continue performing and making music as long as his health allows him, and has just announced plans to record a new album and tour the UK in the spring.

'I'm used to working, it's daunting when I don't work, and I love the music – and that is good for what I have got, it's medication,' he says.

'Whatever this is, it is, and we will deal with it. I was a little bit down, but I thought, “I can still work. It's not affecting my singing, my voice, my show.”'

Credit: Hanss1234.​

Tony grins from ear to ear and reveals the secret to his longevity and peace of mind: the fact that even if he forgets all his lyrics, there's one song that he'll never have to worry about…

'I don't have to sing Amarillo; the crowd sings it anyway!'

The singer even hopes to perform at a special gig to mark his 80th birthday in April and says he has no intentions of letting the illness stop him.

'All I ask is, let me do what I am here to do. Let me go on stage,' Tony says.

As Tony continues to take on dementia, the singer is encouraging others who may be living with the condition not to shy away from help and support.

'I'm glad it all came out. If it helps other people with the same problem and makes them go and get on some tablets, that will help, that's what we hope will happen,' he says.

While dementia can feel like a real-life nightmare, the couple is determined to stay positive.

We here at the SDC wish Tony Christie every success with his upcoming plans, and in his efforts to fight this illness!

Key Takeaways

• Tony Christie has revealed how his battle with dementia has affected him.
• He still plans on touring and continuing his singing career.
• Tony is hopeful new drugs will slow his progression of dementia.

Dementia doesn't have to mean the end of a fulfilling life. Credit: Pexels/Gustavo Fring.

Living with Dementia

Dementia can be a devastating diagnosis for both the person affected and their loved ones. It is understandable to feel overwhelmed and hopeless when faced with this disease.

However, it is important to remember that a dementia diagnosis is not a death sentence. There are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with dementia.

One important step is to stay informed about the different types of dementia and the available treatments. There are various medications and therapies that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve symptoms.

Also, it is important to create a supportive environment for the person with dementia by providing them with structure and routine, as well as activities that they enjoy. This can help to improve their cognitive function and overall well-being.

Dementia patients need familial support. Credit: Unsplash/NCI.

By focusing on the present and making the most out of each day, we can empower those with dementia to maintain their independence, connection, and joy.

Every day is a new opportunity to connect with and support a person with dementia. Encourage them to continue engaging in activities they love and to maintain their independence as much as possible.

This can help them to stay active, cognitively stimulated, and socially connected. And with the right approach, they can continue to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Don't let dementia define your loved one's future. By focusing on the present and providing the right kind of support, we can empower those with dementia to live a life filled with purpose and joy.

Are you or a loved one struggling with dementia? Finding the support you need can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Dementia Support Australia is here to help.

Give them a call any time at 1800 699 799. A friendly consultant will be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have. Or, if you prefer, fill out the form on this link, and they'll be in touch within 48 hours.

Don't let dementia control your life. Take the first step towards getting the support you need by reaching out to Dementia Support Australia today.

Folks, if you have any tips, stories or advice to share about dementia, or even your favourite Tony Christie song, then please leave a comment below! We'd love to hear from you.

 

[RTS]

Research has shown that getting at least eight hours sleep per night allows the brain to be washed clean before it forms amyloid plaques, which cause dementia.
When I feel like a nap I take one, as lack of sleep is also very wearing on the body.

 

[Ricci]

Dementia is an insidious disease that eventually robs one of everything they hold dear. I watched my Mum go through it and wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. It's also hard to realise that those who seemed a different set from us mere mortals, such as Tony Christie, are in fact just human like us and susceptible to the same illnesses etc. as the rest of us. It's a sign we're all getting older but also one I didn't appreciate that our contempories and the idols we had as youngsters are getting older too and beginning to show the signs of that age.