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While many people are still unfamiliar with the concept, end-of-life doulas can be a vital part of supporting patients and their families. Their sole focus is the emotional and spiritual well-being of their patients. They have been trained to provide serenity, strength, and guidance to families during this difficult time. If you would like to learn more, contact us today.

End-of-life doulas offer a more holistic and flexible approach to end of life care. As Merilynne Rush, the co-founder of the Lifespan Doula Association, explains, doulas “figure out with the family where they are at, what they need, what’s causing them to be overwhelmed, and what kind of services they are looking for.” Doulas spend a significant amount of time with families to figure out how to best support them. They provide calm, and guide families through hard conversations. Unlike some healthcare professionals who may be uncomfortable during these types of conversations, these conversations are exactly what doulas have trained

Many people prepare for the final moments of their lives. They write wills, name next of kin, and may even designate a power of attorney. However, death is different for everyone. Some things cannot be prepared for.  Say, for example, that a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer. They have been following their cancer regiment when, suddenly, their health worsens, they are hospitalized, and they are given only months to live. In the hospital, the doctors will try to optimize the patient’s physical problems. Additionally, palliative care doctors can provide medical advice on medications, diet, and other basic therapies

From constantly beeping monitors in a hospital to the quiet of an empty house, doulas are used to caring for patients in all settings. End-of-life care can be complicated, medically, emotionally, and even logistically. End-of-life doulas are professionals who bridge the gap between the medical and emotional aspects of passing away. While many people are still unfamiliar with the concept, having an end-of-life doula during such a difficult time can ease some of the anxiety.