The definition of “doula” is “one who serves”. A Death Doula or Certified End-of-Life Doula (CEOLD) is a non-medical person that is trained to educate, help navigate, and ease the challenges that can arise at end of life.

A Doula provides a calm and non-judgmental presence for you and your loved ones. We offer hands on care, compassion, and wisdom when things seem out of control.

EOL Doulas will meet you where you are in your journey to offer support in-home, hospital, hospice, nursing home. We are also accessible via telephone or virtual visits. Below is some of the work that a Doula can perform:

-Assist with fulfilling final wishes, reconnecting/healing past relationships, putting affairs in order.

-Explore final arrangement options to meet your specific wants, while advocating to ensure you are not overspending.

-Coordinate “Living Funerals” or “Living Celebration of Life” events.

-Tasks performed can consist of tidying up, light meal prep, and organizing documents & belongings.

-Tools to alleviate suffering and anxiety include guided imagery, guided meditation, gentle massage, aromatherapy, music therapy.

-Companion care / caregiver support or respite relief.

-Be a confidant and active listener for deep conversations and life review.

-Aid in the creation of unique legacy projects.

-Writing support for ethical wills, obituary, eulogy, legacy letters.

-Development of meaningful rituals for healing, calmness, and bonding.

-Assist in creation of Vigil Plans, and ultimately implement said plans when end-of-life arises.

-Provide level-headed coordination before, during, and after death.

-Visits and follow up grief support for your loved ones.

-The needs are unique to each individual, and our goal is to make every effort to meet those needs.

-The presence of a Doula can alleviate stress by providing a calming presence during a time of great challenges.

-A Doula can be of tremendous assistance when planning final arrangements. We can provide resources and can act as an advocate to ensure you are making selections that fit your needs and budget.

-A Doula can work with you to create a detailed and customized care plan to reflect your wishes.

-A Doula can dedicate unlimited time for one-on-one support as often and for as long as needed.

A Doula does not possess a medical license and is not hired to replace a healthcare provider in any manner.

By request, we may assist by suggesting some questions to ask your medical provider. We may offer information based on past experience so that you can make the most informed decisions for your healthcare.

DOULAS DO NOT:

-Make medical recommendations or decisions

-Medically treat or diagnose

-Administer medications (prescription or OTC)

When you have been diagnosed with a life-limiting condition giving you six months or less for survival, it is in your best interest to request a hospice referral if your doctor has not yet referred you. Hospice is truly amazing and sadly, under-utilized.

The hospice interdisciplinary team consists of Physicians, RNs, LVNs, HHAs, Social Workers, Chaplains, Therapists, and Volunteers. You will undoubtedly receive outstanding and comprehensive care from your hospice team. Keep in mind you sooner care starts, the more you and your loved ones will benefit from the program.

The downside is, hospice is bound by Medicare regulations, which limits the number and duration of visits. On average, the visits are limited to 5-6 times per week with the duration maxed out at 1-2 hours at bedside.

Doulas will work along side your hospice team to provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support; thereby bridging the gap by providing consistent care for added support.

Hospice is always palliative care, but not all palliative care is hospice care.

Hospice is a version of palliative care that provides comfort and holistic care without the use of life extending treatment. People who are on hospice generally have a prognosis of six months to live, are near or at end of life.

Palliative care will provide comfort care in conjunction with curative care for people who are living with a serious illness. Some people may receive palliative care for long periods of time.

Grief is very complex and unique to the individual. Although Doulas are familiar with death and the grief that follows, we are are not licensed Counselors or Therapists. We will however assist in providing follow-up support, tools, and resources to help with the healing process.

Should you find it challenging to cope with your loss, we strongly urge you to seek a Specialized Grief Counselor.