A History of Royal Health
For much of her extraordinary life and 70-year reign, Queen Elizabeth II was a model of health and stamina. Her public appearances and equestrian activities, even into her 90s, contributed to this perception of unshakeable wellness. However, like any individual, she was not immune to illness and the natural effects of aging. While major illnesses were rare and often treated discreetly by the Royal Medical Household, a clearer picture of her later health challenges began to emerge publicly as she approached the end of her life.
The Rise of Mobility Challenges
Towards the end of her reign, Queen Elizabeth's health was most visibly affected by increasing mobility issues. A number of factors contributed to her declining movement and comfort:
- Knee Surgeries: The Queen underwent surgery to remove torn cartilage from her right knee in 2003, and again in 2004 for her left knee. These procedures were followed by periods of recovery and later, recurring issues.
- Back Injury: In November 2021, the Queen suffered a sprained back that forced her to miss the annual Remembrance Day Service, a rarity for the dutiful monarch. This injury highlighted her increasing frailty.
- Reliance on a Cane: As a result of her orthopedic problems and increasing age, she was often seen using a walking cane for assistance. During one engagement in February 2022, she joked about her limited mobility, saying, "I can't move."
A Chronology of Notable Medical Events
While the Royal Family typically maintains privacy regarding personal medical information, some events were made public over the years. Here is a timeline of some of the health incidents Queen Elizabeth II faced during her long life:
- 1949: Contracted measles from her then-infant son, Prince Charles.
- 1982: Had a wisdom tooth extracted.
- 1993: Missed the Commonwealth Day Service due to a bout of flu.
- 1994: Broke her left wrist after a horse she was riding tripped on her Sandringham estate.
- 2003 & 2004: Underwent two separate knee surgeries.
- 2013: Was hospitalized overnight with symptoms of gastroenteritis, a rare instance of hospitalization for the monarch.
- 2018: Underwent a cataract procedure, a common surgery for seniors, to address clouding of the lens in her eye.
- February 2022: Tested positive for COVID-19, experiencing "mild cold-like symptoms" and feeling "very tired and exhausted" afterwards.
The Final Years: Myeloma Claims vs. Official Cause of Death
In the period immediately before and after her death, speculation about the true nature of the Queen's final illness was rife. The official cause of death, listed on her death certificate, was simply "old age." However, subsequent reports, including claims from former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in his memoir and details published by royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, pointed to a more specific, private diagnosis.
| Aspect | Official Record | Gyles Brandreth's Claim (via Boris Johnson) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause of Death | Old age | A form of bone marrow cancer, known as multiple myeloma |
| Symptom Manifestation | General frailty, mobility problems | Bone pain (especially in pelvis/back), bruising on hands from potential treatments |
| Royal Confirmation | Buckingham Palace has never confirmed or commented on these private claims. | Based on information Johnson states he learned a year or more before her death. |
It is important to note that Brandreth's book and Johnson's memoir represented private claims and interpretations, not official palace communications. The palace has maintained its silence on the matter, honoring the Queen's medical privacy.
Lessons in Healthy Aging from Queen Elizabeth II
While the Queen's life was unique, her approach to health and longevity offers some insights applicable to all older adults:
- Consistent, Moderate Exercise: She remained an avid horse rider well into her 90s, demonstrating the benefits of consistent, low-impact exercise.
- Balanced Diet: Known for her preference for simple, balanced meals, the Queen maintained a healthy weight throughout her life.
- Mental Engagement: Her dedication to her duties kept her mind sharp and engaged, a crucial element of healthy aging.
- Embracing Help: In her final years, she embraced assistive devices like a cane and delegated duties when necessary, demonstrating the importance of adapting to changing physical needs. Learning more about healthy aging practices can provide valuable guidance for seniors here.
