Gladys Knight, 81, Says She’s ‘Healthy and Happy’ Amid Claims of Elder Abuse and Declining Cognitive Health
Plus how families can approach tough health conversations with aging loved ones
Seven-time Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight is best known for her legendary music career, but the “Midnight Train to Georgia” singer is now making headlines over concerns about her health. In an interview with People this month, Knight’s son Shanga Hankerson spoke about a time earlier this year in which Knight allegedly didn’t know who he was for 45 minutes, though the 81-year-old singer has since assured fans she’s “healthy and happy.” Here we take a look at Knight’s health, plus how you can open up a line of communication with loved ones if you have concerns.
The concerns about Gladys Knight’s cognitive health
In the interview, Hankerson, 49, said that Knight is being pushed to perform by her husband, William McDowell, 48, even though the hectic schedule is impacting her health in a “detrimental” way.
“I did my best to give [McDowell] the space to play the role of husband and do what was in my mom’s best interest, and he has not done that,” Hankerson told People. “Why is she working? Why is she in this situation where she’s being made to believe that she has to work like this? That’s really my issue with it.”
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Hankerson went on to say in an interview with The Shade Room that Knight has previously “zoned out” while performing, adding “they’re having to rewind the teleprompters because my mom is forgetting to even look at them.”
According to People, Hankerson, who believes Knight is being both financially and mentally abused, took his concerns a step further and “filed a complaint with the Department of Human Services in Buncombe County, NC, earlier this month.”
Knight speaks out against claims of ‘elder abuse’
Knight has not remained silent on the issue, reassuring fans her health is fine and she’s eager to get back on stage.
“I’m sorry that my health and performances have been misrepresented,” Knight told People. “I want my fans and those concerned to rest assured I am doing very well for someone who has been on stage for three quarters of a century, hard to believe, right? I’m healthy and happy and visiting friends and family these last few months. I’m excited to get back on the road with my sisters and on stage with The Queens Tour. See you soon.”
Knight’s publicist also spoke to People about Hankerson’s comments directly, revealing Knight and her team are “greatly saddened by Shanga’s unfounded allegations,” as he allegedly “has had no substantial contact with her.”
When memory lapses are a red flag
Although Hankerson’s account has not been confirmed, medical experts note that if you notice an incident like this with a loved one, it should not be ignored. “Not recalling a son or daughter, even when only in lapses, is a red flag since these memories are very strong,” says Rhonda Voskuhl, MD, Director of the UCLA Multiple Sclerosis Program and Neurologist at CleopatraRX.
How to approach a loved one about their health
Family dynamics can become complicated as parents age. Many adult children find themselves stepping into a caregiver role after years of being cared for themselves, which can create tension when it comes to questions about health, independence and safety. Decisions about whether an older loved one should continue working, driving or even managing their own daily responsibilities often cause disagreements between family members who want the best for their loved ones but see the situation from different angles. Dr. Voskuhl has thoughts on how to handle it.
“While one member [of a family] often becomes the main caregiver, all should be included in decisions,” says Dr. Voskuhl. “Those closer will have a perspective different from those further away. Both are valuable. Most importantly, include the loved one. Ask and listen to their reasons for wanting to keep working [or carrying on with certain activities] so all can find ways to overcome their concerns.”
Memory lapses don’t mean someone is unable to think clearly
While noticing a loved one is experiencing memory issues may be concerning, Dr. Voskuhl reminds us that memory lapses do not erase a person’s capacity to think clearly or contribute meaningfully to decisions about their own wellbeing.
“Just because they have memory lapses does not mean they cannot think clearly on other issues,” says Dr. Voskuhl. “They usually remain emotionally capable at reading the room regarding what is said or implied. Assure them that you are all supporting them to maximize—not decrease—their independence and health as long as possible. Decide together what is best for them. Go slowly, and make minor adjustments one at a time.”
Ultimately, keeping communication open, approaching decisions as a family and respecting an aging loved one’s perspective will allow families to better navigate difficult situations.
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