What is a Death Doula?

A Death Doula is a non-clinical role where the doula provides support to a family and assists with understanding what is happening with their loved one. They often help coordinate hospice care in the home and may even sit vigil with a person as they come to the end of their life.

How do I know when it's time for additional support for my loved one?

If you feel your loved one may not be safe at home alone, talking with a trained caregiver would be a good idea. This may mean having someone in the home for just a few hours a day or, as people come closer to the end of their life, having someone with your loved one around the clock. It's never "too early" to talk to a Death Doula about possible resources for a family.  However, it CAN be too late.  Beginning the conversation and setting plans for care now will ensure you aren't caught off-guard later.

What if my loved one refuses to talk about end-of-life planning or feels they don't need help yet?

Even if your loved one isn't ready to talk about their terminal diagnosis, you can still reach out to a Death Doula to ask the questions that have been on your mind. Doulas often meet with family members to help them understand what is happening with the disease process and how doula services can dovetail with care the family is providing, along with the support they may be receiving from hospice.