A president’s health is often discussed publicly because it can influence confidence in his or her ability to lead the country.
In December 2025, Donald Trump gave an interview to New York Magazine in which he sought to dismiss speculation about his health.
The interview also touched on his father’s illness and the question of whether Alzheimer’s can be inherited.
Trump’s comments about his father
Trump said that his father, Fred Trump, developed Alzheimer’s late in life, around the age of 86 or 87.
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At the same time, Trump said that he does not worry about developing dementia himself.
The disease is, however, often associated with family history.
The Alzheimer’s Association explains that people with a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s generally have a higher risk of developing the disease themselves.
Risk versus fate
According to Prevention, an increased genetic risk does not mean that a person will inevitably develop Alzheimer’s.
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In the late-onset form, which Fred Trump had, age is the greatest risk factor.
Prevention also points out that lifestyle plays a role in brain health.
Factors such as a healthy diet, exercise, social engagement, and blood pressure control can help support the brain throughout life.
Sources: Health Digest, New York Magazine, Alzheimer’s Association, and Prevention.
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