Ruth Langsford Opens Up About the Painful Decision to Place Her Mum in Care Due to Alzheimer’s
Ruth Langsford, beloved Loose Women star, has shared the heart-wrenching and emotional decision she made to place her 94-year-old mum, Joan, in a care home due to Alzheimer’s disease. In a raw and candid moment on the show, Ruth revealed the overwhelming guilt and judgment she has faced since making the choice.
During a deeply emotional conversation on Loose Women on April 28, Ruth explained how difficult it was to come to terms with the move. “It’s very easy for people to judge when they haven’t been in that position,” she said, speaking candidly about the challenges. “I’ve been trolled for putting my mum into care, but you’re doing it because you love them and want what’s best.”
Ruth’s mother, Joan, suffers from Alzheimer’s, and although Ruth sees her frequently, the decision to move Joan into a care home came after deep reflection. Ruth shared the painful reality, saying, “You feel like you are defending yourself… but you have to ignore the noise and trust your instincts.”
For Ruth, it was never just about making a decision—it was about ensuring Joan received the best possible care. “If she were with me, it would be lonely because I’m not there all the time,” Ruth explained. “But at the care home, she’s surrounded by people, activities, and a social environment, which is crucial for someone like her.”
The Loose Women audience quickly rallied behind Ruth, with many expressing empathy for the tough decision she had to make. One viewer commented, “It’s always a difficult decision, but it’s made with love,” while another shared, “It really resonated with me… the people who are there 24/7 are the ones who make the hard choices.”
Ruth has long been open about dementia’s impact on her family, especially after her father’s battle with Alzheimer’s, which ultimately led to his passing. Now, Ruth finds herself confronting her own fears about the disease. “Every time I forget something, I think, ‘Is this the start of Alzheimer’s?’” she admitted, expressing her personal anxieties.
In the face of these heartbreaking challenges, Ruth has become a dedicated advocate for Alzheimer’s awareness. She took part in the Surrey Memory Walk in 2024 to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, an organization close to her heart. Through her efforts, Ruth has raised over £64,000, inspiring countless others who are facing similar struggles.
While Ruth’s decision has sparked debates and emotions online, one thing is clear: her commitment to her mum Joan’s well-being and her unwavering love for her family shines through.
