Despite official claims of robust health, a growing chorus of experts is raising concerns about potential cognitive issues in the former president.
For years, former President Donald Trump has confidently presented himself as a picture of health. And according to official reports, he’s just that—strong, capable, and fully fit for public life.
But now, questions are swirling again.
From whispers about unsteady movements to serious concerns raised by medical experts, the debate about Trump’s physical and cognitive health has once again taken center stage. And for Americans—especially older voters who have lived through many presidencies—the issue raises important questions about transparency, age, and the future of political leadership.
Official Report: “Excellent Cognitive and Physical Health”
In April 2024, White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella issued a detailed medical report following a full examination of Donald Trump.
According to the doctor’s findings, Trump was:
- 75 inches tall (6’3”)
- 224 pounds, with normal heart, eye, throat, and lung function
- Free of major complications, though a colonoscopy revealed a benign polyp and diverticulitis (an inflammation in the colon)
A follow-up colonoscopy was scheduled for three years later—a fairly standard approach for this condition.
The report also listed Trump’s current medications, which included:
- A cholesterol-lowering drug
- A cardiac prevention medication
- A prescription cream for a chronic skin condition
Dr. Barbabella also noted that Trump had undergone bilateral cataract surgery in recent years, a common procedure among adults over 70.
His overall conclusion?
“President Trump exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health and is fully fit to execute the duties of Commander-in-Chief and Head of State,” Barbabella said.
Trump himself echoed the statement shortly afterward:
“I took a cognitive test. I got every answer right. I took a lot of different tests—heart, other things—and everything looked great.”
But not everyone agrees.
Expert Warns: “Signs of Dementia Are Clear”
Despite the positive evaluation, a growing number of health professionals are voicing concern. Among the most vocal is Dr. John Gartner, a psychologist and former professor at Johns Hopkins University Medical School.
Gartner, who has closely studied Trump’s public appearances over the years, claims that the former president may be displaying clear symptoms of frontotemporal dementia—a rare but serious form of cognitive decline that typically affects behavior, personality, and motor skills.
What Is Frontotemporal Dementia?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is not the same as Alzheimer’s. It often begins earlier and can manifest as:
- Changes in personality or judgment
- Difficulties with movement or balance
- Unusual speech patterns or language loss
For those familiar with aging parents or spouses facing dementia, these signs may be recognizable—and deeply personal.
“The Right Leg Swing” — A Potential Red Flag
According to Gartner, the most troubling sign he’s observed in Trump is a distinctive gait, especially in his right leg.
“If you watch the way he walks, he has what’s called a leg swing. He swings his right leg in a semicircle, almost like it’s dead weight,” Gartner explained on The Dean Obeidallah Show.
This type of movement, known in neurological circles as a circumduction gait, is often associated with frontotemporal dementia or other neurodegenerative disorders.
Gartner added that this symptom, combined with observed declines in motor coordination, tripping on stairs, and an unusual walking pattern, could indicate deeper issues.
“Absolutely Convinced,” Says Another Neurologist
Dr. Gartner said he consulted with other professionals, including Dr. Zoffman, a neurologist, who reviewed footage of Trump’s gait and physical behavior.
Her assessment?
“She is absolutely convinced that it’s frontotemporal dementia that he has because of that telltale right leg swing,” Gartner stated.
The allegations don’t end with physical signs.
Critics have also pointed to Trump’s speech patterns, apparent forgetfulness, and what some describe as increasingly erratic behavior in public appearances as further cause for concern.
Rumors and Speculation: Is Trump Hiding a Health Condition?
In recent months, online speculation has surged, with claims that Trump may be concealing the use of a catheter or other medical devices under his clothing. While there is no hard evidence, the rumors have fueled a growing movement calling for greater transparency in the health of aging political leaders.
Trump, who would be 82 at the end of a potential second term, is already the oldest person in U.S. history to begin a second presidential campaign.
And for many Americans—especially those in their 60s, 70s, and 80s—the conversation around Trump’s health resonates far beyond politics. It touches on real-life experiences with aging, memory, balance, and the natural vulnerability that comes with time.
What Should Voters Believe?
As with many political issues, the truth may lie somewhere in the middle.
On one hand, Trump’s official doctors describe a man in strong cardiovascular and cognitive health. On the other, respected medical professionals are raising legitimate concerns based on public evidence and behavioral patterns.
Whether one believes Trump is fully fit for office or may be concealing a more serious condition, the topic invites larger questions:
- Should presidential candidates over 75 undergo mandatory independent cognitive assessments?
- How much medical transparency is owed to the public?
- Are voters being given a full and honest picture?
What This Means for the Country
We live in a time when health isn’t just personal—it’s political.
And while no one wants to reduce a human being to rumors and diagnoses, many Americans—particularly seniors—are watching with sharp eyes and deep empathy. They’ve seen loved ones age. They’ve faced their own battles with energy, balance, and cognition.
They know what dementia looks like.
And they know what denial sounds like, too.
In the end, the truth about Trump’s health will either emerge—or be buried under a pile of headlines, politics, and partisanship.
But for those who have experienced aging up close, the signs may already be familiar.
