End-of-Life Doula

What is an End-of-Life Doula?

A doula is someone who serves. An end-of-life doula, or “death doula” serves as a non-medical partner, offering holistic—practical, emotional, spiritual—support for those preparing for and/or encountering end-of-life. They serve as a lighthouse in a time that can often feel dark, scary, and unfamiliar.

We may hold your hand or hold your dog’s leash. We may take notes or communicate wishes. We may record memories or organize rituals…

Always, we hold a safe compassionate space. Always, we hear your voice and we help protect your choice.

In some societies in the past, shamans and other spiritual advisors served as psychopomps, or those who led the dying. A psychopomp's duties were in many ways similar to a modern end-of-life doula's duties.

 

What does an End-of-Life Doula do to support the person and family approaching this transition?

As hospice and palliative care focus on pain and symptom management for patients and their loved ones, death doulas can often help those facing the end of life achieve a better death by allowing them to live the time they have left with purpose and companionship.

The word “doula” originates from a Greek word meaning “a woman of service,” and was later adopted by those guiding women through their birth process in a term used widely today: birth doula. The titles “death doula” or “end-of-life doula” are the most common terms for the type of practitioner described here, but you may also hear a death doula referred to as a death midwife or an end-of-life coach. In today's society, although many end-of-life doulas are female, more and more men are entering the field.

Central to the doula’s role is non-judgmental, holistic support that empowers patients and their loved ones to make the choices they want for their death experiences and to do so surrounded by the support they need. Doulas work to create and hold space for the needs and wishes of the dying while at the same time using their expertise to bring perspective, greater meaning, and comfort to the dying process.

The services that each doula offers depend on their skill set and training. Below are some of the core services an end-of-life doula may provide, though this list is not exhaustive. 

• An explanation of common signs and symptoms of the dying process, as well as their meanings
• Help exploring the meaning of the dying person’s life and legacy
• An open ear to receive the frank thoughts of the dying, and provide counsel if requested
• Companionship during the death process – many doulas sit vigil so those in the death process are not alone
• Appropriate, comforting touch and massage
• Caregiver assistance and respite as well as emotional support
• Referrals for patients and family members to additional community resources or care providers, as needed
• Practical support through errands, household help, transportation, etc.
• Grief support for the bereaved

 

Ways you can provide support and comfort to the dying