Home / Arts and Entertainment / "I Feel Diminished": Dick Van Dyke Confronts Physical Decline Ahead of 100th Birthday
"I Feel Diminished": Dick Van Dyke Confronts Physical Decline Ahead of 100th Birthday
16 Nov
Summary
- 99-year-old Dick Van Dyke struggles with foot problems, declining eyesight, and hearing issues
- He finds it frustrating to "feel diminished" and has to turn down travel opportunities
- Van Dyke still goes to the gym 3 times a week to maintain his health and mobility
As legendary actor Dick Van Dyke approaches his 100th birthday on December 13, 2025, he is opening up about the physical and social challenges he has been facing in his day-to-day life. In a recent essay, the 99-year-old Hollywood icon revealed that he struggles with a range of issues, from foot problems and declining eyesight to difficulties maintaining focus in group conversations and frequently needing to use hearing aids.
Van Dyke expressed his frustration at "feeling diminished in the world, physically and socially." The "Mary Poppins" star said he has had to turn down invitations to events and work opportunities in New York and Chicago because the travel is too taxing for him. However, the Tony Award winner remains committed to living a long, healthy life and continues to visit the gym 3 times a week, going through a strict circuit of exercises without breaks.
Despite the physical challenges, Van Dyke is determined to reach his 100th birthday. Earlier this year, he joked about the possibility of not making it to the milestone, but he is now focused on maintaining his fitness and mobility through his rigorous workout routine. As he reflects on his iconic career and the prospect of joining the ranks of centenarians, Van Dyke is navigating the realities of aging with honesty and resilience.
