What Organizations Grant Wishes to Seniors?
While the Make-A-Wish Foundation focuses exclusively on children with critical illnesses, several other incredible non-profits have stepped up to serve the senior population. These organizations understand that age does not diminish one's capacity for hope and dreaming. They work tirelessly to create memorable, life-enriching experiences for older adults, often targeting those who are isolated, low-income, or facing health challenges.
Wish of a Lifetime from AARP
As a charitable affiliate of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime is a major player in the senior wish-granting space. Founded in 2008, this organization has granted thousands of wishes to older adults across the country. They focus on fulfilling dreams that reconnect individuals with their community, celebrate passions, and inspire people of all ages. Eligibility typically requires the recipient to be 65 or older, a U.S. resident, and unable to fulfill the wish on their own.
Twilight Wish Foundation
Twilight Wish Foundation is another prominent national non-profit dedicated to granting wishes for deserving seniors. They categorize their wishes into different tiers based on the senior's circumstances. A "Simple Needs Wish" might involve providing a necessary item like a wheelchair, while a "Living Life to the Fullest Wish" could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience like a hot air balloon ride. The organization's mission is to honor and enrich the lives of seniors, combating feelings of loneliness and neglect. They prioritize low-income seniors who have given back to their community and are 65 or older or a permanent resident of an eldercare facility.
Second Wind Dreams
Recognized as the first organization in the United States to focus on fulfilling dreams for elders, Second Wind Dreams has been operating since 1997. Their Dreams Program aims to change the perception of aging by making elders' dreams come true, from the simple to the sublime. They have granted over 10,000 dreams and focus on bringing joy not just to the recipient but to everyone involved in the process.
The Dream Foundation
For adults (age 18+) facing a life-limiting illness, The Dream Foundation provides inspiring and comforting wishes. This organization serves all adults, not exclusively seniors, but is an important resource for older individuals dealing with a serious diagnosis. They work with medical professionals to determine eligibility and fulfill personal wishes that provide inspiration and comfort for patients and their families.
Comparing Senior Wish-Granting Organizations
To help you determine the best fit for yourself or a loved one, here is a comparison of some key organizations.
| Feature | Wish of a Lifetime | Twilight Wish Foundation | Second Wind Dreams | The Dream Foundation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Older adults (65+) | Deserving low-income seniors (65+) or residents of eldercare facilities | Elders in care communities | Adults (18+) with a life-limiting illness |
| Focus | Experiences that promote healthy, purposeful aging; reconnecting with community | Simple needs, living life to the fullest, celebrating a life; combating loneliness | Changing perception of aging by fulfilling dreams for elders | Comfort, inspiration, and closure for those with life-limiting illnesses |
| Eligibility | Age 65+; unable to fulfill wish on their own; U.S. resident | Age 65+ or eldercare resident; low-income; history of giving back | Elders in care communities enrolled in the program | 18+; life-limiting diagnosis; referred by medical professional |
| Wish Types | Personalized experiences, reconnecting loved ones, fulfilling lifelong dreams | Simple needs (e.g., equipment), celebratory (e.g., travel), living life to the fullest | Wide range of dreams, from simple requests to elaborate experiences | Personal, comforting wishes like travel, meet-and-greets, or legacy projects |
How to Nominate a Senior for a Wish
If you know an older adult who deserves to have their dream fulfilled, the process is straightforward, though it varies slightly by organization. The general steps involve:
- Identify the right organization: Consider the senior's situation. Are they low-income? Do they have a life-limiting illness? Are they over 65? Use the table above to guide your choice.
- Fill out an application: Most organizations have an online application form on their website. Some may require a referral from a medical professional, particularly for wishes involving travel or health issues.
- Provide details: Include compelling information about the senior's story, their lifelong contributions, and why they deserve to have their wish granted. The more detail, the better.
- Wait for review: The organization's committee will review the application and make a decision based on their criteria and available resources.
- Help with the process: If the wish is approved, you may be asked to assist with logistics or help prepare the senior for the experience. The organizations often rely on dedicated volunteers to make the magic happen.
The Impact of Granting a Senior's Wish
Granting a wish to a senior goes far beyond a single event. It provides a profound emotional and psychological boost, helping to combat feelings of isolation and despair that can come with age. As AARP notes, over 90% of Wish of a Lifetime recipients report an improved quality of life and a renewed sense of engagement with the world after their wishes are granted. These experiences can reconnect them with cherished memories, spark new joys, and remind them that they are still seen, valued, and loved. Whether it's a veteran reuniting with old military friends or a lifelong artist finally having their work displayed, these wishes create lasting, cherished memories for both the recipient and their family.
Beyond the Wish: Other Ways to Support Seniors
While wish-granting is a powerful way to bring joy, there are many other initiatives dedicated to supporting older adults. These include programs that deliver flowers and cards to nursing home residents, provide companionship through visiting services, or offer resources for care and dignity in later life. Aging with Dignity, for example, is a non-profit focused on end-of-life care planning through their "Five Wishes" program. Supporting these organizations can also make a significant difference.
Conclusion: Making Dreams a Reality at Any Age
Although the famous Make-A-Wish Foundation is for children, the spirit of granting dreams is alive and well for older adults, thanks to the dedicated work of organizations like Wish of a Lifetime, Twilight Wish, and Second Wind Dreams. These non-profits provide meaningful experiences that honor seniors' lives, combat isolation, and bring immense joy. By nominating a deserving senior or supporting these charities, you can help remind our elders that it's never too late to have a wish come true and that they are a cherished and valued part of our society. For more information, explore the missions and application processes of these wonderful organizations.
Visit the official website of Wish of a Lifetime from AARP to learn more.
