Jeff Carter, the youngest of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter’s sons, has been living privately with Parkinson’s disease. At 72, Jeff has known about his condition for some time but has chosen not to publicly address it, according to his son Josh.
Josh, now 40, explained that they are aware of the progressive nature of Parkinson’s and that his father is still living independently. However, Jeff anticipated future challenges and built his home nearly ten years ago with features like wheelchair accessibility to prepare for when he might need more assistance.
With decades of caregiving experience in the Carter family, they are fully prepared for the increased responsibilities that will arise as Jeff’s condition advances. Josh reflected on the family’s approach, acknowledging that this is simply part of life moving forward.
Jeff Carter, son of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, quietly faces life with Parkinson’s disease at age 72
Jeff, who lost his wife Annette in 2021, has spent much of his life caring for others, a common role in the Carter family. He assisted his mother-in-law, Dorothy Davis, when she suffered severe memory loss following a stroke, and he was also deeply involved when his grandson, Jonathan, was diagnosed with a rare chronic intestinal disorder as an infant. When Jeff’s parents entered hospice care in 2023, the family ensured a loved one was always present with them.
During a recent panel at the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons event, Josh revealed his father’s diagnosis, noting that while Jeff has continued to support Jimmy Carter through his hospice care, his own health has limited his visits.
In a separate conversation, Josh further explained that his father is not very public about his condition because he prefers not to be the face of Parkinson’s. He admitted that dealing with the disease has been tough, calling it a difficult and challenging diagnosis.
To manage his symptoms, Jeff has undergone deep brain stimulation therapy, which involves the implantation of two battery-powered electrodes in specific brain areas. These electrodes, controlled by a remote, have given Jeff serious improvement in his quality of life.
Josh shared how the therapy has allowed Jeff to regain the ability to walk, hold objects without shaking, and enjoy more meaningful time with his family. Jeff’s improved mobility has even enabled him to interact with his grandchildren, bringing much joy to their family.
Jeff, who had three sons with Annette—Josh, Jeremy, and James—now has four grandchildren. Sadly, his middle son Jeremy passed away in 2015 at the age of 28.
As a spokesperson for the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, Josh has spoken openly about the struggles his family has faced. He continues his grandmother Rosalynn’s legacy of advocating for better support for family caregivers.
After Josh’s youngest son was diagnosed with early onset inflammatory bowel disease, he and his wife Sarah founded The VEO-IBD Foundation, the first organization dedicated to parents and caregivers of children with this condition.
At the U.N. event, a documentary clip about Josh’s caregiving experience was premiered, part of a national campaign led by WETA and produced in collaboration with Bradley Cooper’s Lea Pictures and Ark Media.
