A close family member of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has been quietly dealing with a challenging health condition.

Jeff Carter, the youngest son of Jimmy Carter, 72, has been privately living with Parkinson's disease, according to a report from Daily Mail.

The condition was confirmed publicly after years of discretion, with his son sharing details about how the disease has affected his father's life and daily routine.

Jeff Carter, who largely keeps his personal health matters out of the public eye, was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder some time ago. According to his family, the former president’s son has been managing his illness with deep brain stimulation therapy, which has significantly improved his quality of life.

Son Discusses Jeff Carter's Condition

Jeff’s son, Josh Carter, shared more about his father's condition during the United Nations' International Day of Older Persons event. He emphasized the challenges associated with Parkinson's disease and acknowledged that it is a progressive condition with no cure.

In an emotional statement, Josh detailed how Jeff Carter has found ways to manage his symptoms through innovative treatments. One such method is deep brain stimulation, a therapy that allows Jeff to regulate his motor functions using an iPhone.

"He can literally control his brain with his iPhone, which is wild. Without his therapy, he's basically not able to do anything," Josh said.

Josh also described the stark difference in his father’s abilities when his therapy is activated, noting that it enables him to stand, walk, and perform other daily activities that would otherwise be difficult due to the disease.

Jeff Carter Maintains Independence

Despite the progression of Parkinson's, Jeff Carter remains independent and continues to live on his own. His son shared that Jeff was aware he would eventually require more help, which is why he designed his home to accommodate his future needs.

Although Jeff Carter is not one to seek out public attention, his family acknowledged that the disease has been a difficult journey. Josh expressed how challenging it has been to watch his father's health decline, but he also recognized the strength his father shows in managing the condition privately.

Jimmy Carter's 100th Birthday Marks a Milestone

The revelation about Jeff Carter’s health comes at a time when the Carter family is marking significant milestones. On October 1, 2024, Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday, making him the first U.S. president to reach this age. Jimmy Carter, already the longest-living American president, expressed his hope to live long enough to vote in the 2024 presidential election.

The former president has spent recent years in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia, where his health has been closely monitored. Originally entering hospice in 2023, he surprised many by living well beyond initial expectations, showing signs of improvement in recent months.

Family Reflects On Carter's Legacy

In addition to celebrating his centenary, Jimmy Carter’s family has been reflecting on his legacy of service, activism, and philanthropy. Carter, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has continued to be active in humanitarian causes long after his presidency, including his work with Habitat for Humanity and The Carter Center.

Jason Carter, Jimmy Carter's grandson, expressed admiration for his grandfather’s resilience and dedication to his values. He shared how the former president has remained engaged with the world despite his health challenges, continuing to follow the news and staying involved in discussions about the future of the country.

The Carter family has also been candid about the toll that the passing of Rosalynn Carter, Jimmy's wife of 77 years, took on the former president. Rosalynn passed away in 2023, and Jimmy’s last public appearance was at her funeral.

Deep Brain Stimulation Provides Relief

Jeff Carter's experience with deep brain stimulation treatment has been a critical component in his management of Parkinson's disease. This form of therapy involves implanting electrodes in the brain to deliver electrical impulses that help control motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity.

Josh Carter explained how the therapy has transformed his father’s ability to function, allowing him to continue living independently. The treatment has offered a significant improvement in his quality of life, though the disease remains a formidable challenge.

Josh pointed out that while the therapy provides relief from the symptoms, it does not halt the progression of Parkinson's. The family continues to support Jeff as he navigates the ups and downs of living with this incurable condition.

Conclusion

Jeff Carter’s quiet struggle with Parkinson's disease has only recently come to light, following years of managing the condition privately. His son, Josh, revealed the impact the disease has had on his father, as well as the crucial role deep brain stimulation has played in improving his daily life. Despite the challenges, Jeff Carter remains independent and continues to live on his own while receiving support from his family. Meanwhile, the Carter family celebrates the 100th birthday of former President Jimmy Carter, marking a historic milestone amidst personal health struggles.