April 20 is End-of-Life Doula Day—a time to recognize and honor the compassionate individuals who guide others through one of life’s most profound transitions. End-of-life doulas provide emotional, spiritual, and practical care, ensuring people’s final wishes are respected and their journey is met with dignity and peace. At Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), we proudly celebrate this day and the vital role our doulas play in supporting individuals and families in our community.
Launched in 2018, the VNA End-of-Life Doula Program helps individuals and their loved ones navigate the many decisions and emotions that come with approaching the end of life. While death is a natural part of the human experience, it can also feel overwhelming and uncertain.
You may be asking:
- What will my loved ones do without me?
- How can I make this process easier for my family and myself?
- Who will make decisions about my funeral or my assets?
At Visiting Nurses, we believe death is not a medical event, but a human one—and we are here to walk beside you through it. Our End-of-Life Doulas offer personalized support, advocacy, and education to help ease the journey.
Services may include:
- Coordinating with other agencies and support services
- Clarifying and honoring end-of-life wishes—whatever a “good death” means to you
- Connecting individuals and families to local resources
- Assisting with advance care planning, including living wills, directives, and funeral arrangements
- Providing emotional and practical support to reduce fear and anxiety
- Helping manage appointments and communication with caregivers
- Offering bereavement support
- And more (see the full list at here)