Legendary performer Rita Moreno candidly shares the challenges she faces as she ages, including memory loss and the need to depend more on her daughter, Fernanda. Despite these limitations, Moreno emphasizes the power of their close bond and the unwavering support they provide each other.
Rita Moreno, the iconic EGOT-winning performer, has always exuded an aura of strength and resilience. However, at 92, Moreno is navigating the challenges of aging with grace and honesty. In a recent interview with People magazine, she openly discussed her reliance on her only daughter, Fernanda, and the bittersweet realities of their close bond.
Moreno admits to struggling with memory loss, particularly with names. "I have a problem with remembering names, names of things and names of people," she confided. "It's so much a part of being 92 right now."
While she acknowledges the difficulties that come with aging, Moreno refuses to let them overshadow the joy and love she shares with her family. "I'm constantly calling upon [Fernanda] to do things," she said. "There are times when I need her wisdom, and they are more often than you might think, particularly at this age."
Moreno and Fernanda have developed a unique relationship that transcends the traditional parent-child dynamic. They are not only close companions but also each other's confidantes and unwavering supporters. "We constantly have people picking up on our closeness and commenting, 'I wish I felt that way about my mom!'" Moreno shared.
As Moreno ages, she understands the inevitable nature of life. "I think that as you, the parent, gets older, I believe that the child has to be thinking about, 'Well, at some point this will end,'" she said thoughtfully.
However, rather than dwell on the prospect of loss, Moreno and Fernanda have chosen to focus on the present moment. "It's not something that Fernanda and I sit and discuss, but I just know that she has to think about that," Moreno explained. "I think we're both pretty brave about it. Well, we're really honest — very, very honest with each other."
For Moreno, being a parent and grandparent has been the most fulfilling part of her life. "It's the best thing in the world," she said. "And when my grandsons [Justin, 25, and Cameron, 23,] were born, I could have died with happiness. I’m just so lucky that we’ve gotten to know each other so well."
Despite the challenges she faces, Moreno remains an inspiration to many. Her honesty about the realities of aging empowers others to embrace their own journey with grace and gratitude. Through the unwavering support of her family, she continues to live life to the fullest and appreciate the precious moments she shares with those she loves.
