Frequently Asked Questions

What are Life Story Sessions?

Life Story Sessions is a recreational therapy program that I have created. It is designed to be flexible and provides people with a safe space and plenty of time to talk and be listened to, their life stories and experiences valued, and recognition that they have lived a meaningful life. The stories are also audio recorded, and with permission, these recordings may be used for other purposes. For more information, click here.

What is a Recreational Therapist?

A Recreational Therapist works with people of all ages and abilities to design and facilitate leisure and recreation, which is the right of all individuals and has a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. This can include removing barriers to access, and creating safe environments and activities that support, challenge and enhance individuals' psychological, spiritual, social, emotional and physical wellbeing. A Recreational Therapist is sometimes called a Diversional Therapist or Leisure & Lifestyle Officer.

What is an End of Life Doula and what do they do?

End of Life Doulas work with their client to determine how they can best ‘be of service’. Some of the activities that they can help with include advocacy, education, practical assistance, documentation, companionship, support for family and friends, coordination/contact person for formal or informal services, event planning, creation of legacy items, vigil before and after death, and continuity of care after death.

Some End of Life Doulas work in broader group or community settings where they can facilitate events that enable the development of ‘death literacy’, which is “…the practical know-how needed to plan well for end of life. This includes knowledge, skills, and being able to take action” (2016, Kerrie Noonan). Events such as Death Cafes and Death Over Dinner, and workshops to support people to complete an Advance Care Directive, are invaluable in starting conversations about end of life matters and empowering individuals and communities to develop death literacy.

How do End of Life Doula services differ from palliative care?

Palliative care services are usually provided by medical and allied health professionals such as GPs, specialists, nurses, OTs and others who are employed by hospitals or health services. The primary focus is on symptom management in order to maximise quality of life for a person who has a life-limiting illness.

More information about palliative care can be found at:

https://palliativecare.org.au/resource/what-is-palliative-care/

End of Life Doula services are non-medical and are tailored to the needs and preferences of the client. The services may complement or fill the gaps in care that those who are living with a life-limiting illness need support with. This can include advocacy, support for family or carers, assistance with practical matters, helping with planning and preparations, and companionship.

End of Life Doula services may also be used by people who are not in palliative care but would like to ensure that they are prepared for their end of life, perhaps because of ageing or a health condition. The service can include support to complete formal and informal documents, such as an Advance Care Directive; funeral/memorial planning; and, research and education around options for future services and lifestyle activities, including government support and supported accommodation.

Can End of Life Doulas work alongside palliative care providers?

In addition to health professionals, the palliative care team includes carers, family, and any other people that a person would like to receive support from when they are approaching the end of life. This can include an End of Life Doula, whose values align well with palliative care providers in supporting a person’s physical, emotional, spiritual or social needs.

Can End of Life Doulas assist with funeral planning and arrangements?

End of Life Doulas are happy to assist with most aspects of funeral planning and arrangements. As a funeral celebrant, I am also able to design an alternative memorial or other type of ceremony if you do not want a funeral.

How can I prepare for an initial consultation with an End of Life Doula?

I understand it may be difficult to organise your thoughts at this time. Following our initial contact, we will have a meeting where we can discuss your concerns, needs and current supports. If you are already receiving funding or services, it would be useful to know the details. In the meeting, I will explain to you how I work, and come up with a plan of how I could support you.