When people near the end of their lives get the chance to fulfill a “bucket list” wish—whether that means visiting Disneyland, enjoying a favorite meal, or spending one last special day with loved ones—the experience can do far more than bring temporary joy.
According to a new study from The University of Texas at Arlington, these final wishes can improve emotional well-being, strengthen family relationships, and help both patients and loved ones find peace.
The study, published in Palliative & Supportive Care, was led by doctoral student Swasati Handique along with professors Scott Ryan and Michael Bennett from UT Arlington’s School of Social Work.
The researchers reviewed more than 2,200 studies about end-of-life care published between 2000 and 2024.
Surprisingly, they found that only 11 studies focused directly on the impact of fulfilling last wishes. Even so, the available research showed that granting final wishes can have profound and lasting benefits.
“When someone achieves a dream they’ve held onto—like seeing the ocean again or hearing their favorite song—it’s not just a happy moment,” said Dr. Bennett.
“It can become one of the most meaningful memories a family shares, sometimes as unforgettable as a wedding or the birth of a child.”
The researchers found that fulfilling a wish can improve overall well-being, bring families closer together, and help people feel grateful for their lives.
It can also help caregivers provide more compassionate, person-centered support by focusing on what truly matters to the individual. When health care workers take time to ask about a person’s hopes and dreams, they gain insight into their values, which can guide more personalized care.
Some families even reported that these meaningful moments reduced hospital visits and eased emotional pain. In several cases, fulfilling a wish helped heal family conflicts and brought a sense of closure before death.
The study highlighted that many wishes don’t require much money or planning. Simple gestures—like playing a favorite song, decorating a hospital room with bright colors, or arranging a video call with loved ones—can make a big difference.
Programs like the 3 Wishes Project help make these experiences possible in hospitals and hospice settings.
“These moments give people a chance to say goodbye in peace and to reflect on what really matters,” Handique said.
The researchers emphasized that more studies are needed to explore this topic further, but they believe wish-fulfillment programs are a powerful way to support dignity, meaning, and comfort at the end of life.
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