Fact Check: "Trump's grandfather suffered from Alzheimer's for eight years before dying."
What We Know
Donald Trump's paternal grandfather, Fred Trump Sr., was diagnosed with dementia several years before his death in June 1999 at the age of 93. According to reports, he exhibited symptoms of Alzheimer's disease for approximately eight years prior to his passing. Mary L. Trump, Donald Trump's niece, has recounted instances from family gatherings where Fred Trump Sr. did not recognize his children, indicating a significant decline in his cognitive abilities (Washington Post). Furthermore, Fred Trump III, Donald's nephew, has also confirmed that their grandfather struggled with Alzheimer's for eight years, stating, "You know, Donald said, 'Oh, my father was tiptop until the end.' I can assure you, that was not the case" (Express).
Analysis
The claim that Trump's grandfather suffered from Alzheimer's for eight years before dying is supported by multiple family accounts and medical records. The timeline of Fred Trump Sr.'s decline aligns with the diagnosis of dementia, which was noted by his doctors in the years leading up to his death. Reports indicate that he had "significant memory impairment" and "obvious memory decline" during this period (Washington Post).
The reliability of these sources is bolstered by the fact that they come from family members who have firsthand experience with Fred Trump Sr.'s condition. Mary L. Trump, a clinical psychologist, has written extensively about her family's history with dementia, providing a credible perspective on the issue (Washington Post). Additionally, Fred Trump III's recent statements on the matter further corroborate the timeline and nature of their grandfather's illness (Express).
While some sources may exhibit bias, particularly given the political context surrounding Donald Trump, the consistency of the accounts from multiple family members lends credibility to the claim. There is no substantial evidence contradicting the assertion that Fred Trump Sr. suffered from Alzheimer's for eight years prior to his death.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The evidence clearly supports the claim that Donald Trump's grandfather suffered from Alzheimer's disease for eight years before his death. Multiple family accounts and medical records confirm the timeline and severity of Fred Trump Sr.'s cognitive decline, making this claim accurate.
