Common Questions
WHAT IS A DOULA?
Doula is a Greek word meaning non-medical person who gives physical, emotional, and spiritual support to someone else (Doulagivers, FAQS, 2018). Birth Doulas provide services to mothers and their loved ones before, during, and after birth. End of Life Doulas serve clients and their loved ones at the end of life. End of Life Doulas may choose to specialize, and one specialty involves working with aging populations. I have passed all creditable examinations in the Doulagivers End of Life Doula Training and successfully completed the certification program, and am qualified to offer professional End of Life Doula Support. Certificate Number 13402462.
WHAT IS A DOULA COMPANION FOR AGING ADULTS?
A companion for aging adults typically provides emotional support. As a Doula, I'm able to provide additonal support with structured or non-structured activities, reminiscence work, life review, legacy services, spiritual support, and the like.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF HAVING AN AGING ADULT COMPANION / END OF LIFE DOULA?
Preventing Caregiver Burnout: The main source of emotional/social support for aging adults residing in senior living facilities continue to be their adult children or family. While caregiving is rewarding, it can strain the caregivers' own well-being over time, as they juggle competing demands.
Improved Quality of Life for your Loved One: In my experience at skilled nursing facilities, even the best ones, residents can experience loneliness and depression. This is not a fault of the dedicated staff, but rather a result of the challenges posed by a high number of residents, regulations, and extensive documentation. That said; a critical yet often neglected aspect of caring for aging adults is considering what brings them fulfillment. Deep listening, comfort and companionship, along with meaningful activities to bring purpose and accomplishment are critical for quality of life, all the way up to the very end.
WHY WOULD YOU WANT A DOULA IN AN ASSISTED LIVING OR NURSING HOME FACILITY?
Make space for an aging adult to talk about things and ask questions that they may be uncomfortable talking about with others.
Allow permission to experience emotions that they may not share with loved ones for fear of burdening them.
To provide time and undivided attention that nurses can't provide while attending to other call lights and residents.
For when an adult child lives out of town and wants an aging loved one to have a little extra support and comfort.
For when an adult child lives in town and would like extra one-on-one support or companionship for their loved one.
For older adults in senior living who prefer additional companionship.
To provide vigil support and respite.
WHAT IS HOSPICE?
"The goal of Hospice care is to promote comfort for individuals who are approaching the end of their lives. Hospice care helps to treat pain and other symptoms so that residents and their families can focus on what is important to them with the time they have remaining,"(Minnesota Network of Hospice & Palliative Care, 2010)
WHAT IS A VIGIL?
A vigil is a time period during the last days/hours of life (usually 24-48 hours) when someone keeps watchful presence at the bedside of the dying. During this time, they may follow the dying person's vigil plan (if previously created) and/or tend to the dying person's emotional and spiritual needs through prayer, support, or simply by offering a gentle and peaceful presence.
WHY WOULD ADDITIONAL VIGIL COMPANIONSHIP BE REQUESTED IF A LOVED ONE IS ALREADY IN A CARE SETTING?
Even when individuals are in nursing homes and enrolled in hospice, they are often alone in their rooms. For individuals who wish to have someone present at their bedside during their last days/hours, additional support helps to ensure this wish. A doula offers added support and coverage where hospice and other care providers may be more limited by time and scope of work.
ARE YOU RELIGIOUS?
Doulas come from all different faith backgrounds and beliefs. Personally, I am a Christian and feel that I'm able to remain devoted to my own faith tradition; while at the same time, serving others with differing beliefs and practices. I strive to honor and embrace the common wisdom and universal truths of all faith traditions and spiritual perspectives. I acknowledge and respect the unique spiritual path of each client I serve.
WILL YOU GIVE NURSING, MEDICAL CARE, OR FUNERALS?
No, rather than providing medical care, I walk alongside my clients on their journey offering unconditional support, compassion, and gentle guidance. I listen deeply, ask intuitive questions, hold space, and offer encouragement. I do not provide toileting, ADL assistance, or any medical cares. I can be an extra set of eyes and ears for medical staff and/or family members when I notice a change in condition. Age Well Doula Services LLC is not considered a funeral establishment and I am not mortician or funeral director.
WHAT TYPES OF PAYMENTS FOR AGING ADULT COMPANION / END OF LIFE DOULA SERVICES DO YOU ACCEPT?
My services come from the heart; there's no set or required fee. If you wish to make a non-tax deductible contribution, choose the price that feels right for you, and know that your generosity helps me provide free services to those facing financial challenges as well as cover my business and cost of living expenses. I accept cash, check, or venmo in the amount that you feel inclined to give. Please note that medical insurance does not cover aging adult companion / end of life doula services. Additionally, please note that all payments received by Age Well Doula Services, Inc., are not tax deductible for the contributor. People have asked why I don't charge the going rate per hour that other doulas charge. The answer is that I've thought of what really matters in my life and one of those things includes providing loving service to others. In my Christian tradition, I see the Holy Spirit as my guiding light and this is the path I feel called to embrace, offering it from my heart to yours, on a contribution-only basis.
PAYMENTS FOR ARTS / CRAFTS / SUPPLIES: I have many art supplies that I've purchased to use for client projects free of charge. If, however, there will be a fee for a project, such as extra supplies that need to be purchased or for a legacy book through an online publishing service, I will provide an estimate of the cost that would be charged to you prior to purchasing for your approval.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU OFFER YOUR SERVICES?
I serve only one client at a time, to ensure that each individual receives my undivided attention. Whether it's a few hours weekly or more extensive assistance, we'll work together, taking into consideration both your preferences and my availability. In the event that I am unable to provide all the services needed, I am committed to assisting you by connecting you with other trusted end-of-life doulas who can offer additional support.
WHERE DO YOU OFFER SERVICES?
I serve seniors in the Minnetonka community and surrounding areas, who reside in long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, or hospice centers. Call or email for availability.