96-year-old former U.S. first lady Rosalynn Carter has entered hospice care at her home in Plains, Georgia, according to a statement released by the Carter Center on Friday. The announcement comes after the Carter family revealed in May 2023 that Mrs. Carter had been diagnosed with dementia but was still living happily with her husband, former President Jimmy Carter. The statement, issued on behalf of their grandson, Jason Carter, emphasized that the couple is spending quality time together with their family and requested privacy during this difficult time.

The Carters, who celebrated their 77th wedding anniversary in July, are the longest-married presidential couple in U.S. history. They tied the knot in 1946 when Jimmy Carter was 21 and Rosalynn Carter was 18. The couple has been residing in the same one-storey house in Plains, Georgia, where they lived before Mr. Carter's political career began. Despite their age, both have been actively involved in humanitarian work through the nonprofit Carter Center, which they established in 1982, as well as the Habitat for Humanity charity.

President Jimmy Carter, 99, has been in hospice care since February after deciding to decline further medical intervention. Since leaving the White House in 1981, he has enjoyed more post-presidential years than any other U.S. president. Throughout these years, Rosalynn Carter played a crucial role in supporting her husband and engaging in significant initiatives. One such initiative is the Carter Center's public health outreach and disease-eradication efforts, which have gained widespread recognition. Notably, Mrs. Carter has been a passionate advocate for mental health treatment and caregiving, championing efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

During her tenure as first lady, Rosalynn Carter served as the honorary chair of the President's Commission on Mental Health and played a pivotal role in the passage of a bill that aimed to increase spending on mental health services for disadvantaged communities. Her dedication to mental health continued even after leaving office, as she founded the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. The institute provides support, research, and funding to Americans who care for aging family members and loved ones.

In August, the Carter Center shared that Mrs. Carter had a quiet 96th birthday celebration at home with her husband and other family members. The organization revealed that she enjoyed cupcakes and peanut butter ice cream and released butterflies into the garden-an intimate and meaningful celebration for a woman who has touched the lives of countless individuals through her advocacy and caregiving work. Despite the challenges posed by their health, the Carters have remained resilient and dedicated to their mission of making a positive impact in the world.

The news of Rosalynn Carter's entry into hospice care has elicited an outpouring of love and support from the public. As the Carters face this difficult time together, their legacy as a compassionate and devoted couple who have dedicated their lives to service continues to inspire and resonate with people around the world.