Older Americans Month: Am I Too Old To Be A Donor?

May Is Older Americans Month

The question of whether or not someone is too old to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor is one Donor Alliance hears frequently. Some people automatically rule themselves out as a potential donor, due to their health or age; however, there’s no age limit to organ and tissue donation. In 2023, the oldest tissue donor in our region (Colorado and Wyoming) was 103 years old! During Older Americans Month, Donor Alliance is emphasizing the importance of registering to be an organ, eye and tissue donor to save and heal more lives in our community. People in their 50s, 60s, 70s and older have been able to give the gift of life as an organ, eye and tissue donor.

Older Americans Month is good reminder for those over the age of 50 to talk to their families about organ, eye and tissue donation and their decision to register. Donor Alliance also often hears, “I always thought my family would decide if I would be a donor after I pass.” It’s normal for people to think it is a “family” decision; however, having these conversations early and letting your family know your decision to be a donor is critical. During a difficult time, Donor Alliance has heard from families that knowing their loved one’s decision was a bright spot in a dark time. It alleviated the burden of making the decision on their loved one’s behalf during a time of great grief and loss.

Organ, eye and tissue donation saves and heals lives! Register today at DonateLifeColorado.org or DonateLifeWyoming.org. Your legacy will live on through donation and transplantation. One person can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation. Get the facts about donation! Click here for a list of our most frequently asked questions about organ, eye and tissue donation.