What is an End-of-Life Doula?

Also known as an End-of-Life Navigator, Death Doula, Soul Midwives, Thanadoulas, End-of-Life Specialists or Earth Angels. Doula is a Greek word meaning ‘person of service’. End-of-Life Doulas provide non-medical information; and, holistic emotional, physical, spiritual and practical support in the end-of-life care space. 

We compliment the professional services provided by medical and allied health professionals, hospitals, aged care facilities, hospice, aged care and disability services. Doulas do not provide medical, legal or financial advice; nor do they replace professional care services including palliative care and related allied-health and industry related providers. We provide consistent support, comfort and service to the dying and their loved ones, before, during and after death. Click here view more Q&A’s. 

 Support for End-of-Life Planning

Our End-of-Life (EoL) Doula services aim to inform, empower and support those living with a life limiting diagnosis, terminal illness, or deterioration of the body from age or cognitive function. If you have just received a diagnosis or in the advanced stages of dying; or are caring for someone who is; YPC is here for you, and those around you.  

Stage 1 – Let’s Start Talking

It’s your Voice |  Your EoL Doula will listen deeply to your concerns, fears, hopes and stories you wish to share. We create a safe space for you to speak openly and frankly about dying, and explore your meaning of life, values, beliefs, personal wishes and health care preferences. We also assist you in generating authentic death and dying conversations with your loved ones.

Stage 2 – Let’s Start Planning

Advance Care Documentation and Resource Review – It’s your Life | Your EoLD supports you in living life until your last breath. We will review your advance care planning documentation ensuring your wishes and preferences are recorded and in order; and assist you in answering any questions or concerns your loved one may have. We also ensure you are receiving up-to-date non-professional relevant information including available Government Funded and Community Services support and resources. YPC does the research for you, saving you time, money and energy.

Stage 3 – End-of-Life Planning

Your EoL Doula will explore what’s most important to you and utilise our experience and expertise to create preferred experiences, wherever possible. We bring greater meaning and comfort to this emotionally intense process by supporting you, and/or your family, carer or support person to:

• advocate for your rights – if you’re feeling unheard or unseen by your service providers, or feel you are experiencing judgement or discrimination
• navigate the complex legislations and requirements in the medical, allied health, disability or aged care sectors to reduce the overwhelm and clear the confusion
• liaise with service and industry providers to clarify mis-information or conflicting information
• implement communication and support strategies for family and friends
• undertake research, information gathering
• complete forms, reports and administrative tasks
• explore self-care and healthy lifestyle options
• create memorial videos | audio journals | letter writing and creative legacy making options
• personalise funeral planning options
• co-ordinate home transitions | decluttering service requirements
• provide emergency family | carer support, where possible
• support worker (Aged Care/NDIS)
• short term respite support
• vigil support during the active dying stage
• after death body care support, and
• email, phone and text support.