What Is An End-of-Life Doula?

Conversations around death and dying can be difficult to have. Experiences of the last few years have brought death and dying closer to home for many and the number of End-of-Life (EOL) Doulas have been growing to provide a safe and comfortable space, with compassionate professionals for these conversations.

The word doula comes from the Greek word doule, which translates to helper or maidservant. You may have heard about birthing doulas—a trained professional that assists someone before, during and after childbirth. Similarly, an EOL doula is a trained professional who assists a dying person and their loved ones before, during and after death.

End-of-Life doulas provide non-medical support, companionship, guidance, education and comfort to people who are dealing with a terminal illness or death. Doulas normalize deathcare by creating space to hold conversations and to increase communication, emotional and/or spiritual well-being for patients and their loved ones. They assist the dying person to plan for their death and give them the ability to clearly define their end-of-life wishes. EOL doulas will advocate the dying person’s wishes and needs while working together with healthcare providers, family and friends.

What Exactly Does An End-of-Life Doula Do?

Each dying person’s needs are unique and a EOL doula’s services could include any one of or a mix of the following: n Providing the opportunity to speak openly and honestly about the dying process. n Exploring the meaning of the dying person’s life and legacy. n Discussing and supporting end-of-life care planning. n Developing a plan for how the room space looks, feels, sounds and smells. n Assisting with physical and practical care to ease the burden on caregivers. n Explaining signs and symptoms of the dying process. n Sitting vigil with a person as they near their final moments. n Help with identifying and advocating for other professional services.

Continued on page 142

PHONE #

AD ON PAGE #