Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, recently provided an update on his grandfather’s health ahead of his 100th birthday celebration on October 1. Speaking at a music event honoring Jimmy, Jason shared insights into his grandfather’s well-being, especially after months in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia.
Jason spoke to People magazine during the “Jimmy Carter 100: A Celebration in Song” concert. He mentioned that while his grandfather is no longer physically active, he remains emotionally present and aware. Jason explained, “He has really physically diminished, but he is emotionally engaged and still having experiences and laughing, loving.” Despite his frailty, Jimmy continues to experience the world in his
own way.
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, entered hospice care in February 2023. Jason acknowledged that when his grandfather initially began receiving hospice care, the family believed his passing was imminent. However, Jimmy has defied those expectations, with Jason adding, “God had other plans.” In a prior interview with Southern Living, Jason explained that it is difficult for the family to predict Jimmy’s condition on any given day. He shared that his grandfather isn’t awake every day, and family members visit him regularly without knowing how he will be during their visits. Jason also recounted a moment when he discussed this uncertainty with Jimmy. His grandfather, with a smile, admitted, “I don’t know myself.”Jimmy has spent his final years at home in Plains, Georgia, the place where he and his late wife, Rosalynn, built their life. Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023, was 96 at the time of her death.
Jason spoke about the profound impact her absence has had on Jimmy after 77 years of marriage, stating, “None of us really understand what it’s like for him right now… there are things about the spirit that you just can’t understand.”Reflecting on the decision for his grandfather to remain in Plains, Jason said, “It is the place that has given him the greatest support… it is a fundamental part of who he has been for his whole life. There is no other place in the world that he would be at peace other than Plains.” Although Jimmy has been in hospice care for over 19 months, Jason emphasized that his grandfather still experiences love and joy from his family and community. While the extended time in hospice may cause moments of frustration, Jimmy has also been able to appreciate the outpouring of love from those around him.The update on Jimmy Carter’s health came just before his milestone 100th birthday celebration, held on September 17 at Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre. The concert featured performances from well-known musicians, including Chuck Leavell, D-Nice, and Eric Church. The event was open to the public and was a tribute to the former President’s lifelong love for music. Jason shared that music has always been a source of joy and inspiration for his grandfather, whether during his time in the White House or at home in Plains.Despite his physical limitations, Jimmy Carter remains a beloved figure, continuing to inspire his family and nation through his resilience and enduring love for life.