Actress Jeon Sung-ae Opens Up About Dementia Fears and Family History

Actress Jeon Sung-ae recently expressed her concerns about dementia.

On the October 19th episode of TV CHOSUN's 'Perfect Life,' Jeon Sung-ae made a guest appearance.

During the show, a playful photo of Jeon with her husband, Jang Kwang, was revealed. The couple's affectionate interaction prompted host Hyun Young to ask, "Do you often engage in physical affection?" Jang humorously replied, "Don't be too curious." When asked about their last kiss, he said, "We do it occasionally. Don't think we don't," eliciting laughter.

Jeon Sung-ae shared that she met Jang Kwang while performing in the same theater group. When asked if they kissed before going on stage, Jeon's hesitant expression brought smiles.

Jeon Sung-ae is dealing with high cholesterol, pre-diabetes, degenerative arthritis, and a family history of dementia. She revealed, "My mother passed away at 84, but she was diagnosed with dementia in her early 80s." Jeon continued, "She lived with my brother and me until she had to be hospitalized, where she passed away two months later."

Jeon also confessed, "I've been experiencing memory lapses for two years. Forgetting phone numbers is normal. Last year, while filming a movie titled 'The Seven Empresses,' I struggled to remember the names of my co-stars, even though their faces were clear."

She admitted, "I fear that I might develop dementia like my mother." A specialist explained, "Family history increases the fear of dementia. If one parent has dementia, the risk increases by about 47%, and the risk of Alzheimer's by 72%."

Jeon expressed her concern, "Am I at a high risk of developing dementia? It's terrifying." The specialist emphasized, "Early detection and prevention are crucial since dementia is currently incurable once symptoms begin."

The 'golden time' for dementia is during the 'mild cognitive impairment' stage. Jeon asked if her forgetfulness indicated mild cognitive impairment, to which the doctor suggested it might be slightly more advanced.

During the episode, Jeon visited her mother's grave with her two younger sisters. She shared, "My second sister has been in the fashion industry for 30 years, and my youngest sister retired from teaching."

When asked how long it had been since her last visit, Jeon replied, "It's been a long time. My brother visits several times a year, but I went after seven years." She added, "I did my best until my mother passed, so I didn't feel the need to visit her grave. But as I age, my feelings have changed."

When asked why she personally cared for her mother, Jeon said, "I felt it was natural. Despite the challenges, she received my care in her final days," becoming emotional.

Hyun Young asked if Jang Kwang also helped care for her mother. Jeon expressed gratitude, saying, "Even when my mother was difficult due to dementia, my husband never complained. I think that's why we stayed together."

Jeon Sung-ae is married to Jang Kwang, and they have a daughter, Mija, a son-in-law, Kim Tae-hyun, and a son, Jang Young.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr