Not long afterward, Tanner's health deteriorated and it became impossible for him to continue the duties of his office. With Kimball and Romney also ailing, the decision was made to add Gordon B. Hinckley as an additional counselor to the First Presidency on July 23, 1981. Tanner remained first counselor until his death on November 27, 1982 at age 84. Due to Hinckley's appointment the prior year, no additional individuals were added to the First Presidency after Tanner's death, nor were there any apostles ordained as a result of his death.