What is an End-of-Life Doula (EOLD)?

“End-of-life doulas provide a broad range of non-medical, holistic support and comfort to those preparing for or experiencing end of life. People who desire such support may engage with doulas as early as initial diagnosis, or as late as the beginning of the active dying phase, or even after death if bereavement care is what they are seeking. Doulas may provide informational resources, hands-on comfort measures, respite, facilitation, advocacy, and many other services. Above all, doulas seek to help those dying, and their loved ones, achieve an end-of-life experience that is as meaningful, peaceful, and well-prepared as possible for all involved” (per National End of Life Doula Alliance).

Learn more about the doula’s Scope of Practice and Codes of Ethics.

How can a Doula help?

A Doula can assist an individual and their loved ones to focus on what is most important to them. They can facilitate advance end of life planning, help coordinate care, supplement family care giving, facilitate life review and vigil planning, and provide respite care and bereavement services. They can help work with grief, forgiveness, creating ceremony or ritual, and bring healing practices to the sacred process of dying before, during and after death.

When should I start working with a Doula?

Services can begin at any stage of life. Most don’t wish to seek doula services until the very end. But a doula can be helpful care support with a life threatening illness and/or terminal diagnosis. Doulas can bring clarity to end of life plans even if there is no known terminal illness. Planning ahead helps not only the client but also families to honor wishes.

Where can I receive End of Life Doula care?

Wherever you are...in your home, the hospital, an adult family home, assisted and/or independent living communities, memory care settings, etc.