Aging With Dignity Inc.

Aging With Dignity Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Tallahassee, Florida, dedicated to advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals as they approach the end of life. Founded in 1996 by Jim Towey, a former legal counsel and advisor to Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the organization aims to ensure that all people can make informed healthcare decisions that honor their wishes, particularly in times of serious illness.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Aging With Dignity is to "honor the God-given human dignity of the most vulnerable among us." The organization emphasizes the importance of advance care planning, promoting the idea that individuals should communicate their medical preferences ahead of time to improve end-of-life care. Through its initiatives, Aging With Dignity seeks to empower individuals and families to make difficult healthcare choices with confidence and compassion.

Programs and Initiatives

Aging With Dignity is best known for its flagship program, Five Wishes, which is a comprehensive advance directive. This document combines a living will and a healthcare power of attorney, allowing individuals to articulate their preferences regarding medical treatment, comfort care, and final wishes. Since its launch, Five Wishes has gained significant traction, with over 35 million documents distributed through a network of more than 35,000 organizations. The document is available in 29 languages, making it accessible to diverse populations across the United States.

Other notable programs include:

• Voicing My Choices: A planning guide designed for adolescents and young adults with serious illnesses to communicate their healthcare preferences to caregivers and family members.

• My Wishes: A pediatric version of Five Wishes aimed at helping children express their healthcare preferences in times of severe illness.

• Hope Today Project: A pilot initiative focused on creating support networks for seniors and disabled individuals living alone in Northern Florida, intended as a model for other communities.

Leadership

Jim Towey served as the organization's President until 2002, when he was appointed as the director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. He was succeeded by Paul Malley, who continues to lead Aging With Dignity in its mission to improve end-of-life care. The organization’s advisory board includes prominent figures, such as former governors and senators, reflecting its strong ties to community leadership and advocacy.

Financial Overview

Aging With Dignity Inc. operates as a tax-exempt organization under the IRS designation for charities. As of 2023, the organization reported revenues of approximately $3.84 million, with significant contributions from donations and program services. Its financial activities are documented through annual filings to the IRS, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

Conclusion

Aging With Dignity Inc. plays a vital role in the landscape of end-of-life care by advocating for patient rights and dignity. Through its educational programs and resources, it empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions that reflect their values and wishes at the end of life. The organization remains committed to enhancing the quality of care for some of society's most vulnerable populations.