Tony Bennett, 96, Says ‘Life Is a Gift, Even With Alzheimer’s’ — He Nurses Beloved Grandson Cooks for Family

• Tony Bennett suffers from Alzheimer’s at 96

• Tony finds strength and cooks for the family

• Tony holds his newborn grandson in his arms in an adorable photo

Despite his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, 96-year-old Tony Bennett’s musical talent has not faded, nor has his love for his family. The legendary singer-songwriter continues to cook for his family and is a doting grandfather.

Tony Bennett is an iconic singer and songwriter known for his smooth, crooning voice and refined style. He has released numerous albums and singles throughout his long career and has garnered many accolades for his contributions to the music industry.

Tony has been struggling with Alzheimer’s for years. His wife, Susan Crow Bennett, confirmed his diagnosis in a recent profile for AARP Magazine. Tony was diagnosed in 2016 but started to show significant signs of decline two years later while recording an album with Lady Gaga.

The “Because of You” hitmaker first expressed concern about his health in 2015, when he had trouble remembering the names of fellow musicians. Tony eventually went to the doctor and received a diagnosis from a neurologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City in 2016.

Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga attend the 57th Annual Grammy Awards at Staples Center on Sunday February 8, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Susan shared that while his condition has progressed since the diagnosis, the legendary singer has thankfully not experienced the disorientation or episodes of rage, terror, or depression that can sometimes be associated with the disease.

In a recent interview, Lady Gaga spoke about performing with Tony and the emotional moment when he remembered her name for the first time in a while, despite his Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Tony announced her name while they were on stage together at the Radio City Music Hall in August, which was potentially his final time performing for a live audience. Tony and Lady Gaga released an album together in 2014 and another in 2021.

Susan has been with Tony for over 30 years and has served as the musician’s full-time caregiver. In an interview with “60 Minutes” host Anderson Cooper, she discussed how much her husband’s memory had changed and revealed:

“We are blessed in a lot of ways. He’s very sweet. He doesn’t know he has it [Alzheimer’s].”

She said that while she missed the man her husband used to be before the disease, she noted that when he sings, he can tap into the parts of his memory and personality that remain unchanged by the disease.

Finding Happiness Amidst Alzheimer’s

Susan was relieved that Tony still recognized her and their whole family. It was a bittersweet moment, as Tony’s sporadic moments of clarity were a reminder of how far his health had declined.

The famous artist often seemed confused about what was happening around him. Susan was in the middle of a conversation with a friend when Bennett asked about the weather outside. Tony’s question came shortly after taking a walk in the park with Susan and their dog.

The renowned musician also needed help comprehending even the most fundamental objects in his house, such as a fork or keys.

Even though Alzheimer’s disease makes things hard for Tony, he does not allow it to control or dominate his life. He remains grateful and happy despite the challenges he has encountered. He shared on Instagram:

“Life is a gift – even with Alzheimer’s.”

However, Tony’s cooking skills are a shining part of his character that he can’t forget easily. He has a deep-seated passion for cooking that he has shared with his family for years, alongside his love for singing.

The iconic singer revealed that he and Susan enjoy creating dishes inspired by his Italian roots. In a delightful Facebook video, the longtime pair could be seen expertly preparing a classic spaghetti dish with meatballs.

In the video, Tony was seen flipping meatballs on the pan, mixing pasta with tomato sauce, and playing with his dog beside the table. Following the cooking, the couple sat down with a glass of wine to enjoy their meal.

Tony also put together a playlist of classic songs for cooking enthusiasts to listen to while preparing their favorite dishes. Several commenters expressed their delight that Tony spent time in the kitchen with his wife.

Nursing Newborn Grandson

Not only is Tony a talented singer and performer, but he is also a fantastic grandfather of five grandchildren. He truly cares about his family and demonstrates his love and dedication through his actions.

Despite his declining health, Tony showed strength when he welcomed his new grandson into the world in 2017. In a heartwarming photo, the music icon can be seen cradling and nursing the precious little boy close to his chest.

Tony looked proud as he smiled down at his sleeping grandson. The child’s name has not been made public, but it was reported that he is the child of Tony’s son Danny and his girlfriend Hadley Spanier.

The music superstar has four grandchildren: Remy, Kelsey, Jared, and Austin. Remy and Kelsey are Danny’s daughters, while Jared and Austin are sons of Tony’s second son, Dae.

Danny and Dae are Tony’s children from his first marriage to his former wife, Patricia Beech. The award-winning singer also has two daughters, Antonia and Joanna, from his second marriage to his ex-wife, Sandra Grant Bennett.

Danny Bennett with his children Danny, Antonia, Dae, and Joanna Bennett attend “Tony Bennett Celebrates 90: The Best Is Yet To Come” at Radio City Music Hall on September 15, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Tony and his current wife, Susan, do not have any children of their own. Although childless, Susan is delighted with the role of stepmother in the lives of her husband’s children.

Despite facing health challenges and being of advanced age, Tony maintains a bright outlook on life and his family. He takes joy in seeing his grandchildren thrive and accomplish great things.

Tony said he never worries about his age, refuses to let it get him down, and claimed he is “still wide awake.” In fact, he even joked that his doctor likes to dismiss him from appointments because he’s in such good health.

It’s clear that Tony’s strength and determination are unbreakable, making him a true inspiration to all. His resilience in the face of illness only further cements his status as a legendary singer and songwriter.