In a political climate where questions of age and mental acuity have become central to the national conversation, President Donald Trump’s latest annual physical exam is already making waves. On Sunday, the White House released a detailed medical report declaring the 78-year-old president in “excellent cognitive and physical health,” with no concerns about his ability to continue executing the duties of the office.
Trump underwent the thorough five-hour evaluation on Friday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the traditional site for presidential exams. The report, authored by White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella, covered everything from cardiac health to mental function — and the results, according to the document, were stellar across the board.
“President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function,” Dr. Barbabella wrote.
Key Health Takeaways from Trump’s Exam
The full three-page summary was a comprehensive overview, covering the president’s physical stats, medications, and even follow-up on prior injuries. Here’s what stood out:
Age: 78
Weight: 224 pounds (down slightly from last year’s 228)
Resting Heart Rate: 62 bpm (a strong sign of cardiovascular fitness)
Blood Pressure: Within the normal range (specific numbers withheld)
Cognitive Test: Scored 30 out of 30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Hearing: Normal, despite the aftermath of a gunshot wound sustained at a campaign rally in July 2024
Medications: Includes two for cholesterol, a low-dose aspirin for cardiac health, and a topical skin treatment
Activity Level: Described as “highly active,” with frequent travel, public appearances, and regular golf sessions
According to the summary, the only abnormality was residual scarring on his right ear from the shooting incident — a detail mentioned only briefly, suggesting it hasn’t affected hearing, balance, or neurological performance.
Trump’s Response: Confidence with a Side of Swagger
Speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One shortly after his physical, Trump didn’t miss a beat in praising the results.
“I got every answer right,” he said with a grin, referring to his perfect cognitive test score.
“Good heart. A good soul. Very good soul.”
Trump took a moment to draw a contrast with his political opponents, particularly former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, both of whom have declined to take formal cognitive assessments.
“I just wanted to be a little different,” he said. “People deserve to know their president is sharp.”
Cognitive Health in the Age of Senior Leadership
Trump’s proactive approach to testing — and publicizing — his cognitive abilities comes at a time when voter confidence in the mental fitness of aging leaders is under intense scrutiny.
Former President Joe Biden, who turned 82 last November, faced heavy criticism during his last year in office after several public missteps, a notably weak debate performance, and revelations from Special Counsel Robert Hur’s investigation citing “poor memory.” Despite growing concern, the Biden White House maintained that cognitive testing wasn’t necessary, even as polls showed declining public trust in his mental sharpness.
At one point, Biden claimed to take a “neurological test every day,” a statement many experts and commentators found hard to believe or verify. His physician later released a routine medical summary saying there were “no new concerns,” but it lacked the transparency and detail many had hoped for — especially with the 2024 election looming at the time.
What the Experts Say
Medical professionals emphasize that while age can naturally affect memory and reaction time, significant cognitive decline — particularly if it interferes with decision-making or daily function — is a red flag for anyone in high-stakes leadership.
“A cognitive test like the MoCA isn’t just about remembering a few words,” explains Dr. Olivia Raymond, a neurologist at Johns Hopkins. “It evaluates executive function, spatial reasoning, memory, and attention. A perfect score in someone of President Trump’s age is rare — and impressive.”
Politics Meets Public Health
While physical and cognitive tests have long been a part of presidential health care, how much the public sees — and how it's communicated — often depends on who’s in office. Trump’s decision to release a full, detailed report marks a more transparent approach, perhaps aiming to reassure voters as the 2024 election cycle heats up again.
With age becoming a political issue — especially as both major party frontrunners are pushing 80 — these exams are no longer just routine check-ups. They're campaign statements.
Bottom Line: Trump Passes, and Passes Big
Trump’s report is not just a medical update — it’s a political message. The results paint a picture of a high-functioning, active, and cognitively sharp leader who, despite his age and the stresses of office, remains physically and mentally fit.
