Organs may come from newborns on up, with no specific age limit. There was more of an age limit in the past, but now it is decided on a case-by-case basis.
The oldest known donor of a liver was 92, in Canada, and there was one who was at least 85 in the United States.
At the time of a donor’s death, medical professionals determine whether organs are usable. Needed organs include the heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver, and intestines.
There is a general age limit of 70 for donation of tissue, including the eyes, skin, bone, heart valves, and tendons.
An important factor in donation acceptance is prompt recovery. Telling family members now, not in a will or letter, that you want to be an organ and tissue donor is the best way to make sure that your wishes are carried out.
