What is an end-of-life doula?
An end-of-life doula is a companion and support person for you as you navigate a terminal illness or planning for death.The end-of-life doula concept arose out of an international movement to increase awareness and destigmatize death in the medical profession, and society as a whole. End-of-life doulas believe in and ascribe to the dying person's bill of rights.
Death doulas, or end-of-life doulas, partner with the dying to help create space for an intentional, supported experience as you move through life's final stage of growth.
Death doulas center and companion you during your end-of-life journey. We believe dying is a profound affirmation of who we are and how we live.
Doulas help you create plans that honor your wishes, help you find peace, and leave legacies for your loved ones. A doula can help you navigate the many choices you face, and the emotions that arise, as you plan for death. A doula will listen and hold space for you.
Doulas believe that no one should die alone if they do not wish to, and can companion you as your transition or help coordinate timely visitation and support of your loved ones and family at end-of-life.
Doulas can act as advocates, helping to coordinate with hospice teams, medical providers, faith communities, social workers, and your care givers. We can also act as caregiver support.
As people who are experienced with the physical process of death and dying, doulas can offer education, and help clarify the changes you might experience at end-of-life. We can offer you resources, like reading recommendations and educational pamphlets for your situation. Doulas can help you make connections to community programs, support groups, and other holistic care providers.
Doula work is non-medical support. However, some doulas, like myself, are separately trained and licensed to provide specialized bedside care to manage end-of-life symptoms. I am a licensed CNA and have further certification as a hospice and palliative aide through the Hospice and Palliative Credentialing Center. This means that I have specialized skills to provide personal care for terminally ill and actively dying patients. Personal care at end-of-life is unique and often conflicts with the goals of care for typical medical management. Hospice and palliative trained skills can reduce physical pain and discomfort, as well as reduce caregiver burnout.
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