Rosalynn Carter, the erstwhile First Lady, is facing the trials of dementia as her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, undergoes hospice care.
An announcement on May 30 from The Carter Center, a non-profit organization, stated, "Throughout her life, Mrs. Carter has been at the forefront advocating for mental health. From the Georgia Governor's Mansion to the White House, and eventually The Carter Center, she has relentlessly championed better access to care and worked to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health issues."
"About 10% of older Americans are living with dementia, which has significant impacts on mental health," the declaration went on. "Echoing Mrs. Carter's early understanding, we acknowledge that stigma often deters individuals and their families from seeking the help they need. By sharing our family's situation, we aspire to spur vital discussions around dinner tables and in medical practices nationwide."
As previously disclosed by OK! in February, President Carter, who is 98, opted to spend his remaining days at home.
"Following multiple brief hospital admissions, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has chosen to be with his family at home and engage hospice services rather than undergo further medical treatment," a statement read. "He is receiving unwavering support from his family and his healthcare team."
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time and expressed gratitude for the widespread concern for the former president.
Fast forward three months from the disclosure of President Carter's health condition, his grandson provided additional insight into his well-being.
"As of now, they're only receiving family visitors, but they're doing so in the most comforting environment: their shared home," stated Jason Carter, the statesman's grandson, to The Associated Press on Tuesday, May 23.
"With a marital journey spanning over seven decades, they're aware they're not in control. Their faith is serving as a solid foundation during this phase. In this context, things are as positive as they could be," he spoke about his grandparents. "Well, they're your quintessential rednecks from south Georgia. You'd find a small rack near their kitchen sink where they dry reusable Ziplock bags, even today."