Step 2: Download and install the latest updateĭownload and install the latest Word update, depending on your version of the program. If the issue continues to occur, go to the next step. You can copy or move these files to the desktop. Note You do not have to delete files in this folder. Additionally, you may have to use the Force Quit command to exit the program. When you try to open a Microsoft Word for Mac document, Word for Mac stops responding. Word for Mac document stops responding when you try to open a document Symptoms