Doula Services

The Role of An End-of-Life Doula

Many of us have heard of “Birth Doulas”, who usher life IN at birth. “End-of-life Doulas”, also called “Death Doulas”, usher life OUT at death… or assist people as they prepare for that passage.

The role of an end-of-life doula is defined as someone who provides companionship, comfort, and guidance to those planning for death, diagnosed with a terminal illness, or facing imminent death. Doulas offer nonmedical holistic support encompassing emotional, spiritual, and practical care. Doulas may offer resources to help the dying person and their circle of care to make informed decisions in a supportive environment.

The Approach of Practicing Doulas

• Recognize the autonomy of the dying person and their circle of care.
• Offer communication and presence rooted in self-awareness and attentive listening.
• Commit to understanding the many overlapping traits of the people they are accompanying.
• Discuss and explore end-of-life options initiated by the dying person.
• Offer knowledgeable guidance of the dying process and community-based resources to the dying person, their circle of care, and the community-at-large.
• Support and advocate for the dying person and their circle of care.
• Provide deathcare from within or outside structural systems.

(Standards as outlined by the International End-of-Life Doula Association – INELDA)