Jimmy Carter’s grandson reveals 100-year-old ex-prez’s secret to longevity

Former President Jimmy Carter, 100, departs the funeral of his wife and former first lady Roselyn Carter in 2023.
Former President Jimmy Carter, 100, departs the funeral of his wife and former first lady Roselyn Carter in 2023.

He’s keeping the faith.

Former President Jimmy Carter’s “stubbornness” and his faith in God are keeping him alive at 100 years old, according to a new interview with his grandson.

Jason Carter revealed that he and his family are shocked and in awe of his grandfather, who is marking an improbable second anniversary in hospice care — with the two key characteristics accounting for the Democrat’s longevity.

Former President Jimmy Carter, 100, departs the funeral of his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, in 2023. via REUTERS
Former President Jimmy Carter, 100, departs the funeral of his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, in 2023. via REUTERS

“We are not the ones responsible for when and how people leave this world in this kind of way, and [Jimmy Carter’s] faith story is one that has been important to him, and this is another part of that,” Jason Carter told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

“On a more personal level, I just think he’s stubborn. I mean, he’s never given up on anything in his life and he’s not going to start now,” Carter added.

Jason Carter, 49, ran for governor of Georgia in 2014 for the Democratic Party. Getty Images
Jason Carter, 49, ran for governor of Georgia in 2014 for the Democratic Party. Getty Images

The 39th president first entered hospice care in his native Georgia in February 2023, with his family at the time believing he had only weeks to live.

After his grandfather’s nearly two years in hospice, Jason Carter relayed that some days are better than others for his dear pappy.

“He’s got big, good days where he’s pretty active, he’s up and active and talking and enjoying, including in politics. But most days he’s not that active, he’s going to sleep a lot of the time,” he revealed.

Former President Carter and his beloved wife, Rosalynn, at a 2019 press conference for Habitat for Humanity, a lifetime pet cause for both. AP
Former President Carter and his beloved wife, Rosalynn, at a 2019 press conference for Habitat for Humanity, a lifetime pet cause for both. AP

Back in October, Carter made a public appearance for his 100th birthday, with many noting the centenarian looked every bit his age —- seemingly unconscious or asleep through the entire public celebration.

The one-term president is the first commander-in-chief to reach the milestone age.

Despite his overbearing health issues, Carter was able to maintain the level of cognizance required to vote by mail for Kamala Harris in November’s election.

Advertisement