Former President Jimmy Carter's Wife, Rosalynn Carter, Begins Hospice Care 9 Months Later
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of President Jimmy Carter, has transitioned to receiving compassionate 'hospice care at home' after 9 months since her husband's passing
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Michael Kovac/WireImage
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, amidst her battle with dementia, has commenced hospice care in the comfort of her own home. In a statement released on Friday, November 17, the couple's grandson Jason Carter revealed, "She and President Carter are currently dedicated to spending cherished moments together with their loved ones."
Jason reiterated the Carter family's request for privacy and expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they have received.
Rosalynn, aged 96, and Jimmy, aged 99, tied the knot in July 1946. They went on to have four children: Amy Carter, Jack Carter, James Carter, and Donnel Carter. In 1976, Jimmy won the presidential election, and the family relocated from Plains, Georgia, to the White House in Washington, D.C. After serving a single term, Jimmy left office in 1981 upon Ronald Reagan's election. The following year, Jimmy and Rosalynn established the Carter Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting democracy, peace, and combatting illness. Jimmy's work with the Carter Center was recognized with a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
After completing his term as president, Jimmy Carter and his wife returned to their residence in Georgia. In February, it was announced that Jimmy, the 39th president of the U.S., began receiving end-of-life care at the age of 98 after a series of brief hospital stays. On October 1, Jimmy celebrated his 99th birthday.
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Last month, during a birthday tribute broadcast, Jason, 48, revealed to CNN that the Carters would be in Plains, at their home, together as they always are. He described them as being deeply in love, at peace, and excited to spend time with their family that day. Jason expressed their collective joy and surprise at reaching this point, stating that nothing they do surprises them anymore.
After nearly three months since Jimmy entered hospice, the Carters made the announcement that Rosalynn had been diagnosed with dementia.
According to a statement posted on the Carter Center website in May, she is happily residing at home with her husband, enjoying the springtime in Plains and spending time with loved ones.
The statement further emphasizes that Mrs. Carter has been a prominent advocate for mental health in the country for many years. It highlights the prevalence of dementia among older Americans, affecting their overall mental well-being. Recognizing the longstanding stigma surrounding this condition, the statement calls for open discussions and support-seeking to overcome this barrier. The intention is to facilitate important conversations among individuals and families, both at home and in medical settings across the country.
Jason, the son of Jack (76) and his ex-wife Juliet Langford, shared with CNN in October that his grandmother is currently in a state of joy. He expressed concerns about the health of both Jimmy and Rosalynn, highlighting their unwavering partnership throughout their lives. Jason concluded by emphasizing that they continue to live their days together just like they have lived everything else, with an incredible sense of unity.
