This "gray paper" addresses the concerns of older women regarding their control over death and dying. It is based on the observation that older women are devalued by society on account of both their age and gender, and hence are likely to be impoverished and vulnerable as they approach death. The paper begins by examining the legal, ethical, and economic consequences of the medical profession's control over the right to die. A review follows of court cases which have established the legal principle that a competent terminally ill patient can refuse or terminate life-sustaining treatment at any time. "Living wills" and other advance directives to help women stay in control of their bodies are then discussed, along with the conflicts and contradictions inherent in the subject of death and dying--specifically, the danger of "right to die" directives degenerating into a license for euthanasia. The paper concludes with principles to help women navigate the complex legal, medical, and emotional minefield of death and dying, and with recommendations for personal planning, legislative support, public education, and new alternatives for terminal care. A list of publications and organizations is included. (TE)