Almost everyone is familiar with the role of doulas and midwives, but a few know about the role of death doulas. The concept of death midwives is similar to the birth doulas, but end-of-life doulas provide care to terminally ill patients who have approached the end of their life. Death doulas assist patients and their loved ones in dealing with the end-of-life process. We all know that life and death are both natural processes, yet many folks struggle with the emotional challenges of dying. It’s a natural thing, and nobody can control it. But we all have an opportunity to find such individuals who can help us emotionally and spiritually.
Death doulas also provide their services to hospice patients. The role of death doulas is not limited to anything. An end-of-life doula might help your homecare organization provide more emotional support during this difficult time.
What Is A Death Doula?
A death doula is responsible for easing a person’s transition from life to death. During this tough time, a death doula acts as a partner or companion to the dying one. They sometimes also serve as an advocate for the person’s family. If we consider nature-wise, this role is highly personal. It completely depends on what a person or their family expects from a death doula. In some cases, patient and their family only require emotional support, but in other cases, they may also require a death doula to go beyond the emotional support.
Role Of Death Doulas In A Patient’s Life
- Active listening, light discussion, addressing a patient’s questions, and assisting them in finding peace.
- Reading and friendship provide consolation.
- Using relaxation techniques such as guided visualization, meditation, and massage to alleviate anxiety.
- Adding new cushions, candles, or treasured items to their room.
- Recommending and assisting with legacy projects, contributions, and letters.
- Considering end-of-life desires or wishes.
Part Of Death Doulas In Family’s Life
- Determining family preferences and choices.
- Providing an advanced level of care to the family members.
- Initiating end-of-life planning discussions with the family members, including advanced care methods, death body care, and memorial services.
- Strategizing plans for the last hours of the patient’s life, including their favorite activities and goodbyes.
- The role of death doulas also includes making suggestions to proceed with legacy projects, letters, and gifts.
- Supporting difficult conversations and working on family members’ rights.
- Offering high-end support and companionship to the patient’s family members to deal with the toughest phase of their lives and the aftermath.
- Assisting family in completing domestic tasks, including housekeeping, pet care, or lawn care.
Why Should Hospice Rely On The Services Of A Death Doula?
During the end-of-life period, your home health and hospice service may require more assistance, as the act of dying might require all hands on deck to guarantee patient and family comfort. In this situation, you should contact a death doula. They will listen to both your agency’s and the patient’s requirements in order to develop an end-of-life care plan that works for both of you. It’s critical to select a death doula with whom you and your family click, as this person will be there when care services are provided.
Summing It Up!
Home hospice caregivers that have worked with death doulas found it beneficial for improving the end-of-life experience and making it more positive. The role of death doulas is to work with the hospice nurses and employees at your organization to address all the care gaps.
