Sandra Day O'Connor, Former Supreme Court Justice, Passes Away at 93 After Battle with Dementia

Sandra Day O'Connor, a trailblazing figure as the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court and a pivotal justice for over a generation, passed away on Friday (December 1, 2023), according to a statement from a court spokesperson.

She died due to complications from advanced dementia and a respiratory illness at the age of 93.

The former Supreme Court Justice had been receiving care for dementia for several years. In a statement issued on October 23, 2018, Justice Sandra O'Connor, then age 88, revealed that she had been diagnosed with dementia, which was likely Alzheimer's disease.

Since many people have asked about my current status and activities, I want to be open about these changes, and while I am still able, share some personal thoughts. 

At the age of 75, O'Connor unexpectedly declared her decision to retire from the Supreme Court to care for her husband, John, who was battling Alzheimer's disease. John passed away in 2009 at the age of 79.

Following her retirement, O'Connor continued to be engaged in public affairs, advocating for eliminating judicial elections at the state level, which she believed overly politicized the courts. She also voiced strong opinions regarding the failure of the nation's public schools to adequately provide civics education.

O'Connor was appointed to the court by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, who himself was later diagnosed with Alzheimer's. 

O'Connor Served on Alzheimer's Task Force

Ironically, in 2009, O'Connor, along with former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich and former Surgeon General David Satcher, was on a task force that studied Alzheimer's and the impact it will have, because of longevity, on American families and the U.S. health care system. 

The report showed that Alzheimer's would overwhelm the nation's health-care system. Today, as Generation X and late-boomers join the baby-boomers in longevity, more people will need help with everyday living activities and require long-term care services and supports. This includes supervision due to those who suffer from cognitive decline.

“Sandra Day O’Connor exemplifies excellence in public service, & she continues to be a role model to women & an inspiration to young people. I am saddened to hear of my friend’s diagnosis, but not surprised she is facing it with the strength & bravery that have defined her life,” said Sen Susan Collins (R-ME).

O'Connor was nominated to the Supreme Court by President Reagan on August 19, 1981, fulfilling his campaign promise to appoint the first woman to the highest court in the United States. On September 21, O'Connor was confirmed by the U.S. Senate with a vote of 99–0.

On July 1, 2005, she announced her intention to retire. In her letter to President George W. Bush, she said her retirement would take effect upon the confirmation of her successor. On July 19, Bush nominated D.C. Circuit Judge John Roberts to succeed O'Connor, who was later confirmed.

President Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in July of 2009.

Media reports say she had begun having issues with short-term memory and that she primarily used a wheelchair, owing to hip problems, so her public life was scaled back. The Alzheimer's Association says Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 60 percent to 80 percent of cases. Worldwide, nearly 44 million people have Alzheimer's or related dementia. 

Alzheimer's (and other forms of dementia) is one of the leading causes of long-term care.16.1 million Americans provide unpaid care for those who suffer from this condition. Paid care is substantial and drains the assets of American families. Health insurance and Medicare will not pay for most of this type of care. Those with Long-Term Care Insurance can benefit from professional care at home or in a facility. Every 65 seconds, a person gets diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

Loved Ones Face Challenges When Caring for Family Member with Dementia

The impact on family caregivers is tremendous, physically, emotionally, and even financially. Caregiving is very hard on family members. These caregivers must balance their own lives, careers, and family responsibilities with caregiving. 

This care, in addition to supervision, helps a person with normal living activities they can no longer do on their own. Generally, the needs of those who have dementia are greater than normal aging care. 

Affordable LTC Insurance Essential for Family and Finances

Many experts recommend Long-Term Care Insurance should be part of a retirement plan. These affordable policies provide tax-free resources for quality care, at home, or at a facility. In addition to protecting savings and income, they reduce the burdens placed on family members.

People require long-term care services due to an illness, accident, or the impact of aging. Dementia is a significant reason people require care. Supervision is an important part of the care provided by a Long-Term Care policy.

Most long-term care services are not paid for by health insurance, or for those who are age 65 and older, Medicare and supplements. Only Long-Term Care Insurance provides the resources for families can protect their savings, lifestyle, and legacy. 

LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator Helpful in Planning

Start your research by using the LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator. The calculator will show you the current and future cost of care services where you live. 

You will also see a state-by-state breakdown of available tax incentives and the availability of partnership plans, which provide additional dollar-for-dollar asset protection. For someone who may have Alzheimer's, that extra asset protection can be substantial. 

What Is the Partnership Program in Long-Term Care Insurance?

There are also unlimited long-term care options, with traditional Long-Term Care Insurance and hybrid policies combining life insurance with a qualified rider for long-term care. With an unlimited benefit, the policyholder can never exhaust benefits no matter how long they may require care. 

Types Of Long-Term Care Insurance Policies? Which Is Best For You?

Premiums can be very affordable for many people if they enjoy reasonably good health and obtain coverage at younger ages. Most people get coverage in their 40s or 50s, but you can find affordable options in your 60s and beyond for those with good health. 

Long-Term Care Insurance Cost: Factors, Considerations, and Price Ranges

Experts suggest seeking help from an experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist to help find affordable options.