Why “Better Endings”
The end of life is rarely easy. It can be confusing, demanding, and overwhelming for both the person at the end of life and their loved ones. Better Endings was founded on the belief that there are better and more supportive ways to approach the end-of-life phase. Death is natural and universal, but as a culture, we avoid talking about it. This silence magnifies fear and suffering and provides no guidance on how to manage one's final weeks and days.
While no one can eliminate sadness and loss, Better Endings aims to reduce unnecessary suffering—suffering that stems from not knowing what to expect, from feeling lonely, and from daily challenges that become overwhelming. Small tasks like changing a light bulb or rescheduling a doctor’s appointment can turn an already difficult day into a calamity.
This is where Better Endings steps in—to inform, support, and empower you and your loved ones, allowing you to focus on more meaningful things.
What is an End of Life Doula?
“End-of-life Doulas provide companionship, comfort, and guidance to those facing a terminal illness or death. Our non-medical holistic support encompasses emotional, spiritual, and practical care. We offer resources to help the dying person, along with their family and loved ones, make informed decisions in a supportive environment.”
End-of-life doulas, also known as death doulas or death companions, are trained in active listening, guided meditations, vigil planning, and more. These tools empower those at the end of life to choose how they want to spend their remaining time and the type of care they prefer. Doulas facilitate difficult conversations, allowing individuals to explore and process their thoughts and feelings about death and life without judgment.
Services Provided by Better Endings
End-of-life doulas bring empathy and humanity to healthcare settings, where doctors and nurses often don't have much time to spend with patients.
Doulas step in when medical professionals need to move on.
Emotional Support
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Invite honest conversations
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Active listening
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Companionship
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Support of loved ones
Practical Support
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Help coordinating support team
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Caregiver respite & assistance
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Light house work; errands
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Pet care
Education
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Advance Care Directives
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Vigil Planning
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Research end-of-life topics
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Information on burial choices
About Better Endings
Becoming an end-of-life doula was not something I had planned. My life changed when I experienced sudden personal loss.
Contact me
If you’d like to learn more about how I can help you or a loved one, please submit an inquiry with any details you would like to share.
Please note that I live in New York City and only service the local area. If you live in another part of the country, feel free to still reach out. Once I better understand your needs after the phone consultation, I will do my best to refer you to one of my colleagues who works in your area.