Former President Jimmy Carter, the longest-living U.S. president, is celebrating one year in hospice care. In 2015, Carter was diagnosed with cancer that had spread to his brain. Last year, at the age of 99, he chose hospice care to spend his remaining time at home with his family. This decision has sparked discussions about the importance of hospice care across the country.
Facing health challenges since 2015, Carter’s choice to enter hospice care is not uncommon in palliative and hospice situations. Dr. Tammie Quest from Emory University’s Palliative Care Center notes that early referrals for hospice care often lead to better outcomes, such as an extended lifespan and improved quality of life for patients.
Contrary to what some may think, statistics from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization show that most hospice patients spend less than three months in end-of-life care. However, the top 10% of patients may spend over 264 days in hospice care. Dr. Quest suggests that Carter’s situation aligns with the norm, where early referrals can have positive outcomes for patients.
Jimmy Carter, who turned 99 in October 2023, celebrated his birthday in Plains, Georgia, with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. Despite facing physical challenges, Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, assures that his grandfather is happy, spending time with family and enjoying simple pleasures like watching baseball games.
Tragically, Rosalynn Carter, known for her mental health advocacy, passed away in November at the age of 96. She had entered hospice care after being diagnosed with dementia earlier in the year. Despite these challenges, Jimmy Carter remains resilient, and his commitment to family and a positive outlook on life is evident.
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As the longest-living U.S. president, Jimmy Carter’s one-year milestone in hospice care prompts discussions about end-of-life decisions and the importance of hospice care.
His journey reflects the significance of making choices aligned with personal values and priorities, even in the face of health challenges. The Carter family expresses gratitude for the support and respect for their privacy during this time.
