The White House has adjusted the routine for President Joe Biden’s arrivals and departures from the Marine One helicopter, citing concerns about his age and mobility.
An Axios report suggests that advisors are worried about President Biden’s difficulty walking and its implications regarding his age and mental health. Here’s the crux of the new routine:
Instead of President Biden walking alone across the South Lawn to and from Marine One, he is now frequently accompanied by aides. These aides usually walk in between the president and the press cameras positioned outside the White House, which reduces the visibility of his slow and stiff gait. According to Axios, some advisors fear that videos showing Biden walking or shuffling by himself—particularly on grass—highlight his age.
Additionally, the White House has taken measures to minimize the risk of falls after an incident last summer at the Air Force Academy, where Biden stumbled on stage. He now wears shoes with extra support, such as black Hoka sneakers. The president’s doctor has revealed that Biden has “spinal arthritis” and “mild sensory peripheral neuropathy of the feet,” which contributes to his stiff walk.
President Biden initially resisted changes to accommodate his age, but has recently adapted. Besides switching footwear, he now boards Air Force One using lower stairs, which require fewer steps. He also continues with physical therapy and stretching exercises regularly.
Since taking office in 2021, President Biden has had several public missteps, emphasizing concerns about his physical and mental fitness, with many speculating about potential underlying health issues, including dementia or other degenerative diseases.
