While my family sits with our ailing father in the difficult time between life and death, my niece, Lindsey offered invaluable insight as a former hospice nurse. Her calm and open demeaner about the dying process, brought a palpable ease to the room. Upon hearing about her hospice experiences, I wanted to understand the role of a "death doula" and this new field of support.
"The appellation ‘end-of-life doula’ (EOLD) is increasingly used as an umbrella term to identify lay people, primarily women, who provide a diversity of non-medical supports—social, emotional, practical, and spiritual—for people nearing the end of life, including those close to them" (Krawzik and Rush, 2020). The term doula is derived from the Greek word "doule," which means helper or maidservant. Families hire death coaches to facilitate, guide, and emotionally support the dying process.
Nancy Telzerow, an end-of-life doula based in Ohio, says that she provides "a bridge to allay fears, communicate expectations, and gently walk individuals towards grace and peace with the dying journey, all while the spiritual veils are thin and close at heart.” Telzerow advised me to talk with my father continually, even when I am not physically with him. She suggested I share my excitement about his reunion with our loved ones who have passed. My Dad nodded and smiled when I mentioned that when we see an Irish flag wave, we will think of him.
The services provided by an EOLD may include:
1. Providing education and guidance regarding "do not resuscitate" orders and healthcare power of attorneys.
2. Creating an environment that allows........