As Jimmy Carter approached his remarkable 100th birthday on October 1, 2024, his grandson Jason Carter provided a touching update on the former President’s health. Despite being under hospice care in his cherished hometown of Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter continues to remain emotionally engaged and present, bringing comfort to his friends and family.

Jason spoke to People magazine while attending the “Jimmy Carter 100: A Celebration in Song,” a concert held in honor of the milestone. He shared that though his grandfather is no longer able to participate in physical activities, his spirit remains strong and aware. “He’s been in hospice for over 19 months now,” Jason explained, “and even though he has physically diminished, he still laughs, loves, and connects emotionally.”

While his health hasn’t seen significant changes recently, Jimmy Carter continues to experience life, albeit in a more limited capacity. Jason emphasized this point in previous conversations with Southern Living, noting that his grandfather isn’t always awake but is visited regularly by loved ones, who never quite know what to expect regarding his condition.

Entering hospice care in February 2023 at the home he shared for decades with his late wife, Rosalynn, was a poignant moment for the former President. Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96, had been his steadfast companion for 77 years. “None of us can really grasp what it’s like for him right now,” Jason reflected, referring to the loss his grandfather faces without her.

While speaking with Southern Living, Jason shared an intimate moment where he confessed to Jimmy that he often doesn’t know how to respond to inquiries about his grandfather’s health. “I just tell them I don’t know,” Jason recalled, to which Jimmy had responded with a smile, underscoring the uncertainty even he felt about his own journey.

Jason acknowledged that when Jimmy first entered hospice, the family believed his time was limited to mere days. “But,” Jason said with reverence, “God had other plans.” Meanwhile, Plains, with its supportive community and cherished memories, remains the only place where Jimmy Carter finds peace during this stage of his life.

Though frustration occasionally creeps in due to his physical restrictions, there is an abundance of love surrounding the former President. Jason shared these uplifting thoughts with People magazine during the celebrations for Jimmy’s 100th birthday, highlighting a heartwarming concert held on September 17 at the historic Fox Theatre in Atlanta.

Announced back in early August via the Carter Center website, this musical event promised performances from renowned artists like Chuck Leavell, D-Nice, Drive-By Truckers, Eric Church, and The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chamber Chorus. The celebration aimed to support Jimmy Carter’s enduring legacy through his non-profit organization that strives to protect rights, improve governance, and combat diseases globally.

Reflecting on his grandfather’s connection to music, Jason shared, “Music has been a constant source of joy, comfort, and inspiration for my grandfather, whether on his record player, during campaigns, or at the White House.” It’s fitting that on his centennial birthday, Jimmy Carter was celebrated with melodies echoing the moments that brought him happiness.

In addition to the concert, military flyovers and other community activities were planned to honor Jimmy Carter’s life and contributions. Speaking with The Georgia Vote, Jason reflected on his grandfather’s strong faith, pivotal even in the decision to opt for hospice care over further medical intervention.

“He has struggled with it at times but ultimately accepted God’s plan just as he did throughout his life,” Jason observed, underlining the consistency with which Jimmy Carter has lived his values.

Importantly, the former President’s lasting influence extends beyond politics, serving as an inspiration for his family. Jason cherishes memories of fishing trips and valuable life lessons learned from his grandfather, whom he regards as an exceptional family man.

He’s grateful, too, for the extended time his children have spent with their great-grandfather, forming cherished bonds that are rare and precious. These reflections serve as a fitting tribute to Jimmy Carter, a centenarian whose enduring love and dedication continue to shape the lives of many.