Phil Robertson’s health has taken a concerning turn. The Duck Dynasty star is in the “early stages” of Alzheimer’s disease, according to his son, Jase Robertson, who has spoken about the 78-year-old’s various health struggles.
“According to the doctors, they’re sure that he has some sort of blood disease that’s causing all kinds of problems,” Jase shared during the December 6 episode of Unashamed with the Robertson Family podcast. “It’s accelerated and it’s causing problems with his entire body.”
Jase explained that the reality star — who appeared with his family on the popular duck-hunting reality show from 2012 to 2017 — has been significantly impacted by his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, which has made his health worse. Jase said, “He’s just not doing well. He’s really struggling.”
Struggling with Daily Activities
Jase went on to explain that Phil has expressed a strong desire to return to his normal activities, particularly podcasting, but his condition has created both physical and mental barriers.
“He keeps saying, ‘I’m gonna get back to the podcast,’” Jase recalled. “But I’m like, ‘Well Phil, you can barely walk around without crying out in pain, and your memory is not what it once was.’
He’s like, ‘Tell me about it.’ So he is literally unable to — I think he would agree — to just sit down and have a conversation.”
Focused on Comfort and Care
Despite the terminal and irreversible nature of Alzheimer’s disease — a brain disorder that leads to progressive memory loss — Jase noted that the family is prioritizing their efforts to provide comfort and support to their patriarch during this challenging time.
“We’re trying to do a lot of things to figure out how to make him more comfortable, and maybe help with his memory,” he explained.
“We’ve got a team of doctors and they’re all in agreement that there’s no curing what he has. And so, what do you do? We’re trying to make him a little more comfortable.”
A Look at Family Milestones
In recent years, Phil has spent time reconnecting with his daughter Phyllis Thomas — whom he discovered he fathered through a past affair in 2020 — and her family. Phyllis has shared family milestones on social media, from duck hunting trips to holiday celebrations.
In one post from November 2020, she expressed gratitude for their reunion, saying, “So thankful God brought us together after all these years… His timing is perfect, and every day and new experience is a gift.”
The family has shared treasured moments, such as duck hunting trips, holidays, and special gatherings. On Father’s Day in 2021, Phyllis celebrated her first holiday with her father by learning to make crawfish au gratin.
On Easter 2023, Phil shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, “We wish you a joyous Easter as we celebrate the miracle of the resurrection, our hope in Jesus, and the promise of what’s to come. We pray that our story is your story — that you’ll find light and hope in the living Savior. Happy Easter from our family to yours!”
As Phil continues his journey through his health struggles, his family remains committed to offering him the care and support he needs while cherishing their shared memories and time together.
