Services for Individuals and Families

Practical vs Emotional or Spiritual Support

Practical support refers to the necessary activities to support the body as it changes due to illness or the end-of-life, the legal preparations to be made, and how to handle the loved one and their assets after death.

Emotional and spiritual support go beyond caring for the body and dealing with physical assets. It is about the human experience and being present as we listen to the person at the current stage of their journey, wherever they may be. Our Doulas will walk with them through that experience for as long as they need us.

At times, there is an overlap between the types of support. For example, a doula who helps with washing dishes or taking out the trash isn't just helping with the practical needs of keeping your living space clean, they are also helping to reduce stress and increase comfort by helping with a task that may have become difficult. Contacting loved ones and having difficult conversations is an emotional experience, but may be considered a necessary one. Doulas can help by reaching out, offering guidance, or simply listening and being present.

We want to help with whatever your needs may be.

Developing a Care Plan

Care plans are about both the medical side and the daily activities and needs of the individual. We can help you put together a plan that fits your needs.
Care plans may include:

• Deciding who will be in your circle of care and what role(s) they may play
• What you can do independently right now, and how that may change as your condition progresses
• What your current medical needs look like and how that might change
• Choosing someone to speak for you regarding medical or legal matters when you can no longer speak for yourself
• What changes to your living space may need to be made to accommodate your condition
• What wants you have that will make this journey easier
• Deciding how you want your end-of-life needs to be met
• Deciding how you want to be remembered after you are gone

Navigating the Medical System

Receiving a serious diagnosis is an emotionally draining experience, and sorting through the medical terminology that follows can be complicated and confusing. We can help you navigate those complexities and get the help you need.
That help may include:

• Finding the right doctors and medical providers
• Planning appointments and transportation if needed
• Communicating your needs to the medical providers and helping you understand their findings and recommendations
• Helping you understand the Hospice system
• Helping you decide if or when you are ready for Hospice and finding the right one for you

Daily Needs

Sometimes, daily needs pile up or don’t get done after a serious diagnosis. A little extra help can go a long way in making you or your loved one more comfortable.
That help can come in the form of:

• Basic chores such as dishes or laundry
• Washing or brushing hair
• Reading a book together
• Cooking or baking
• Setting up a smart TV or other technology
• Grocery shopping
• Arts and crafts
• Creating a music or podcast playlist

End-of-Life Needs

Certain end-of-life plans are usually handled by a family member or someone in your circle of care, but sometimes family isn’t available or becomes overwhelmed. In these cases, it can help to have someone who will step up as needed.
A doula can help by:

• Contacting loved ones
• Assisting with funeral research or plans
• Touring cemeteries or other burial sites
• sitting with the dying in their final moments
• Accompanying the family during a vigil
• Ensuring those gathered around the dying are cared for