Legendary actor Gene Hackman’s reclusive lifestyle may have contributed to his risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to a leading dementia expert. Hackman, 95, was found dead at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26, alongside his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, 65, and their dog Zinna. It was later revealed that he had advanced Alzheimer’s, which played a role in his death.

Tragically, Gene died just a week after Betsy succumbed to a rare infectious disease, and medical professionals speculate that he may not have been aware that she had died. The couple, married for 34 years, lived a quiet and private life, preferring to keep to themselves, according to neighbours. According to Dr Tim Beanland, head of research and learning at Alzheimer’s Society, Gene’s isolated lifestyle may have increased his risk of developing Alzheimer’s and accelerated his decline.

Dr Beanland explained: “Social isolation is linked to an increased risk of getting dementia. It might be that isolation reduces stimulation of the brain, which can offset dementia.”

He continued: “Social isolation is also linked to a person’s dementia getting worse more quickly because the person is not being stimulated. We saw this most clearly in the pandemic, when lockdown led to many people with dementia not being visited and having a more rapid decline,” reports the Mirror.

Following Gene’s death, an appeal was made for neighbours to come forward with any information they might have about the reclusive couple. However, it soon became apparent that many of those living nearby knew very little about them, as they kept a low profile.

The pair resided in a secluded gated community, and fellow residents rarely caught a glimpse of them. James Everett, who had lived next door for around five years, commented: “They have a gate, and we have a gate, and we just have never even seen each other.”

Long-time local resident Harvey Chalker shared his observations with the New York Times, saying: “He wanted to be quiet, he didn’t want to be bothered, and I don’t blame him.”

Meanwhile, Beau Theriot, who occasionally visits his property in the area, noted: “I know there’s some nice people up there, I just don’t know them.”

After announcing his retirement from acting in 2008, Gene went on to pursue a career as an author. He revealed that he enjoyed the solitary nature of writing, finding it to be “more private” and stating that he found it “relaxing and comforting”.

Paying tribute to Betsy after Gene’s death, his daughter Leslie credited her with “keeping him alive” and praised their “wonderful marriage”. Speaking to Mail Online, she said: “She took very, very good care of him and was always looking out for his health.”