End of Life Doula
A doula is a fully-trained non-medical support person who understands dying. Specially trained in accompanying those at end of life, we have great capacity and sensitivity to care for terminally ill people, drawing on knowledge and wisdom that has been somewhat lost in a world estranged from the experience of death and dying.
There is no roadmap for end of life, each individual’s circumstances are different.
We know the outcome, but the journey is unpredictable, and with illness progression, it can be a challenging, difficult and overwhelming time. In compassionate response to the return to home-based dying however, there is a vibrant re-emergence of community-based end-of-life doula movement, not only in New Zealand, but across the whole world.
The name ‘doula’ comes from ancient Greek and translates as “person who serves” …historically, it was primarily the role of a woman to care for the dying however, this vocation now encompasses all who are called to serve and in essence are also known as ‘’death midwives”.
The doula approach is holistic, person-centred care with focus on practical, emotional and spiritual support for those living with life-limiting illness, people facing end of life, and their families, before, during and after death.
A doula understands your needs and nurtures a trusted relationship where you can feel safe, empowered and respected, whilst receiving continuity of care throughout.
Doula care bridges the gap for you and your family, working alongside medical professionals and extended care teams serving and adapting to any environment, whether you choose home-based end of life, hospice, hospital, or other.
Starting a conversation about dying might feel daunting but it’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your family. Making your dying wishes known in advance is important for many reasons, even if you are healthy and well.
Discussing end of life early on gives you the opportunity to relieve your loved ones of some of the tough decisions they may be faced with later on. Having your preferences recorded in advance will give you peace of mind in knowing that even if you become unwell and are unable to express your preferences, they will be taken into account and respected.
One of the most difficult steps is starting. Doulas are fully trained in facilitating end of life conversations, whether this be supporting you in your family space or assisting with completion of an advance care plan (ACP). A doula also has access to a wealth of resources and information, and an extensive network of support services to empower you in making choices that are best suited to you.
Each end of life is as individual as each life; while we cannot predict, we can prepare.
The dying process has an ancient intelligence that is as old as life itself and needs nothing from the outside world in order to function except to be supported and loved through a transition that is the natural transformation of all living things.
Thankful Hearts
Doula care can help make end of life easier for everyone, and memorable for all the right reasons.
In New Zealand, we have an extensive professional doula and death care service provider network across the Canterbury region, all working to serve and support you and your loved ones.
For more, visit www.eldaa.org.nz