Common questions regarding compassionate deathcare

What does an end of life doula do?

EOL doulas provide support in a non-medical role. This can cover a wide array of things, and is often complemented by a person’s professional experience they may have had before, or in addition to, doula work.

EOL doulas support in carrying out the needs and wishes of the dying person first and foremost. This may include end of life planning, help with paperwork, creating a plan for after death, coordinating with hospice, creative legacy planning, and supporting caregivers with day-to-day tasks.

 You might think of doulas as a close friend to call on who is knowledgeable and comfortable in navigating the needs that arise in different areas at end of life. A good doula will be kind and supportive, and a safe space to share feelings in a vulnerable time.

 Don’t doctors/nurses/hospice staff do all this already?

Medical teams provide crucial services at end of life, and EOL doulas do not replace that. Doulas complement medical services by providing support in a non-medical role, specifically tailored to the needs of the client. This may include help getting to and from appointments, liaising with hospice, and acting as a medical advocate when necessary. Doulas are also well versed with signs and symptoms at end of life, providing loved ones with a sense of a timeline as death draws near.

 Can’t I do these things myself?

Yes. And, with an experienced doula, you receive a referral list (and a do not call list) of a wide array of vetted resources: lawyers, funeral homes, grief counselors and more, all of which can be challenging to navigate in times of high stress. Doulas can assist with calling and planning, taking on the burdens of time and energy needed to coordinate multiple needs in an emotionally turbulent time.

 Who hires EOL doulas?

Typically, doulas are hired by the person who is aware they are dying. The doula’s role is to support the needs and wishes of that person, first and foremost. There are also times when loved ones hire a doula because, as caregivers, they need the extra assistance, and even cases where a doula is hired after a person has already died to help with logistics after death. No matter who hires them, doulas offer support to both the dying person and their caregivers, ensuring that the dying person’s wishes are met, and that caregivers receive extra help and respite when needed.