End-of-Life Doula

EOLDs follow a Doula Model of Care, Scope of Practice and Code of Ethics to serve in non-medical, holistic support roles to provide education, guidance, emotional, spiritual and practical comfort care to those who are dying and their families. EOLDs turn toward suffering with compassion and intentional presence to hold non-judgmental space during a sacred season of the human experience. This precious time can be lived well. EOLDs collect client/family vision and goals during an emotional time to advocate for improved quality of relationship and support at end-of-life.

EOLDs are dedicated companions who compliment Hospice services by filling gaps for clients and their families during life-limiting illness and the dying process. The flexibility to serve at the bedside of those experiencing dying minds gaps when Hospice practitioners and volunteers are unable to commit extended presence in homes or facilities. Those gaps often leave caregivers with the frustration of organizing bedside presence, visits from loved ones and community, and balancing self-care and support to provide meaningful end-of-life experiences during an overwhelming and frightening season of life.

EOLDs provide a broad range of services that meet practical needs such as respite care, vigil planning, coordination of visits and household organization. EOLDs may be called upon to bear witness to the experiences of the dying, capture their stories and conduct life reviews. EOLD care plans are tailored to the unique needs of each client/family. For emerging needs outside of the doula Scope of Practice, EOLDs engage linkage to resources and professionals through education, nurturing client and caregiver self-determination and advocacy to reduce wrong door access points in resource and support procurement.

Some EOLDs charge by the hour. Others may charge a flat rate that includes an initial consultation and set number of visits and services. Services and fees are clearly defined in written service agreements with clients. No one should die alone. There is much grace extended to find solutions to overcome economic barriers to EOLD service access during the sacred end of life season.

Every dying person has unique needs, fears and familial relationship dynamics. EOLDs are a grounding and calming presence during a time of unknowing when the only certainty is the shifting of existing and emerging emotions, needs and circumstances. The steadfast presence of EOLDs can support strengthening of familial relationships and connection when it matters most.

End-of-Life Doulas advocate for preparedness to aid you and your loved ones in navigating anticipatory grief while you are with them. After death, linkage to services, follow-up, and resource referral is available to companion the healing legacy work you intentionally planned to support your loved ones in enduring your absence in this human experience.