Hospice of the Western Reserve launches end-of-life doula program

Will offer individualized physical, emotional and spiritual support

Hospice of the Western Reserve announced it has launched an innovative end-of-life doula program to enhance support for patients and their families in the final phase of life.

The new program will be provided exclusively by specially trained volunteers at the Cleveland-based nonprofit agency, according to a news release.

Hospice stated that just as labor doulas offer a trusted source of support for expectant mothers by serving as advocates and engaging them throughout the birthing experience, volunteer end-of-life doulas will focus on supporting the physical, emotional and spiritual facets of death for both hospice patients and their families.

“We believe the final phase of a person’s life deserves the same care, planning and reverence as the day they were born,” explained Lisa Scotese Gallagher,

director of staff experience, in the release. “Death, just like birth, is a natural part of the life cycle.

“The personalized support provided by our volunteer end-of-life doulas ensures this final life transition will unfold according to each patient’s personal beliefs and desires.”

Gallagher said the doulas will accompany patients throughout their end-of-life journey, nurturing consistent communication and empowering them to choose how they would like to see the final journey unfold.

“The individualized approach fosters dignity and personal expression,” she added. “Actively engaging patients in the planning process may empower them to find deeper meaning and a greater sense of peace through exploration.”

The volunteer doulas will serve as integral members of hospice clinical care teams as they support patients throughout their end-of-life journey, the release stated. Through legacy work, the doulas will help patients find meaningful ways to share their stories so their life lessons, values and experiences can be memorialized for future generations of their family.

Through a process called vigil planning, patients’ wishes for their final days will be documented, ensuring each individual is provided with the setting and environment they desire, according to the release. The volunteer end-of-life doulas will also be available during the final hours to providing a reassuring presence and added support for patients and their loved ones.