UNDERSTANDING DEATH DOULAS (DEATH MIDWIVES)

Humans are social animals. We want to be around others, and in everything we do, we seek love, acceptance, and care. Into our last days, we still want that treatment. For many individuals dying is scary, and dying alone can be even scarier. Death doulas are individuals that want to help you through the fear.

What Do Death Doulas Do?

Death doulas take on a large responsibility, caring for our loved ones during the last stretch of their lives. A death doula can take on various forms and shapes: as hired professionals, volunteers with a non-profit, or our own close friends or family─ although they’re usually “outsiders” to the patient. They are highlighted by their assistance, helping and guiding our loved ones through not only their medical needs, but also their emotional needs. Death doulas work as a companion and friend to the individual, as well as an advocate. They work with them through making decisions, navigating medical systems, and learning what options are available to them up to their final moments. In addition to being emotional support for your loved one, death doulas are also educators, bringing compassion and empathy to the situation at hand, and many death doulas are trained to talk about death and grieving, offering support to both the patient and their family. They offer continuous care─ following the individual regardless of changes in hospice or care, up until they are not needed anymore or until your loved one has passed.