President Joe Biden’s aides reportedly worked to shield him as they noticed signs of his physical and cognitive decline, according to *The New York Times*. Sources revealed that Biden spoke more slowly, needed help getting up, and walked with a halting gait compared to a few years ago.

In 2022, his longtime aide Mike Donilon warned him that perceptions of his age were his “biggest issue,” advice Biden reportedly ignored when announcing his 2024 reelection bid without consulting aides or family.

The report also highlighted efforts by his team to manage his condition, including rearranging meetings to suit his mood, delaying sharing negative information, and surrounding him with aides during public appearances to avoid scrutiny of his movements.