11/06/2026
We will all reach the end of life. Who will be there whose job is simply to stay?
This week is Hospice and Palliative Care Week, part of National Care at Home Month.
End-of-life doulas, sometimes called death doulas, walk with people and families near the end of life. They help plan a vigil, write a legacy letter, keep watch through the night so a family can rest, and stay with the grief that follows.
They work beside hospice teams, not instead of them. Nurses, aides, social workers and chaplains bring medical and spiritual care. Doulas bring time, presence and continuity.
For most families, end-of-life doula care is still paid out of pocket. Which means the extra time and presence a doula brings is too often something a family has to buy.
Swishvo serves end-of-life doulas today, and we are working toward the day this care is covered.
One more note: Medicare open enrollment runs through Dec 7. If you support older adults, remind them to review their plans.