All anatomic donations are in fact an extraordinary gift, the gift of life. No, although age and health of a potential donor may affect what organs and tissues can be used, this is not decided until the time of death. The quality of medical and nursing care will not change. When medical personnel in local hospitals have a death, they call a local 24 hour hotline. The coordinator assists the referring hospital and the donor family with the legal and medical aspects of donation.
Brain death is death.
It is a condition in which the entire brain is irreversibly destroyed. Artificial life support systems may maintain the functioning of the heart, lungs, and liver for at least a few days, but not permanently. Using a standard neurological examination, a physician can confirm brain death beyond doubt. Understanding brain death is important in making your decision. For most people it is important to have the closure of paying last respects to a loved one at the bedside.