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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about death, or end of life, doulas

We want to ensure that every patient in our community has a voice and is heard and respected as they navigate through healthcare from beginning to end with dignity, confidence, and respect.

  1. What is an end-of-life Doula?

    • An End of Life Doula, is a non-medical and holistic practitioner who guides and advocates for individuals and their families throughout the dying process.

  2. What is the purpose of a Doula?

    • To be present for the client, family, and/or friends, support, advocate, educate, and provide companionship to those in need. Doulas support dying individuals leaving this life as they transition into the next.

  3. What services do Doulas offer?

    • Guide people through the early stages of grieving.

    • Assist the dying with end-of-life guidance regarding advance care directives, etc.

    • Provide the opportunities to have open and frank conversations about dying.

    • Educate and explain the signs and symptoms of the dying process.

    • Explore what the meaning of death and dying is to the person’s life and/or legacy Assist with Life and or Legacy Projects.

    • Bring a compassionate and intuitive presence to the bedside Encourage appropriate ways to facilitate touching and caressing of the dying person.

    • Discuss and develop a plan for how the environment looks, feels, and sounds.

    • We incorporate traditions and religious beliefs and/or create new traditions to mark and commemorate special moments Support spiritual practices.

    • Offer holistic assistance with Reiki and Crystal healing, if desired.

    • Help and encourage the processing of emotions and experiences with loved ones.

    • Assist loved ones with after-death care and preparations.

  4. How does Hospice differ from Doulas?

    • We as Licensed Practical Nurses, highly recommend that all individuals diagnosed with a terminal illness and are nearing end-of-life call their local hospice as soon as possible.

    • Hospice offers Medicare-funded services to help aid with the cost of medications and durable medical equipment.

    • Hospice also offers 24/7 medical attention as needed with nursing and nursing aide assistance weekly or more.

    • We complement hospice teams.

      • ​Doulas can offer more time, more individualized and personalized attention, more continuity at the bedside, more advocacy, and more availability as hospice is bound to Medicare guidelines.

    • We also offer Respite care relief for the client's loved ones.

      • This allows them time to also take care of themselves while caring for their dying family or friend.

  5. Why would I need or want the assistance of a Doula?

    • End-of-life Doulas provide a comforting presence, knowledge of the death process, and compassionate care.

    • We offer resources for families who may become overwhelmed and grieving the impending death of their loved ones.

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