What is a DEATH DOULOS?
A death doulos is a male-identifying deathcare and end-of-life specialist who serves as an advocate, companion, and resource for those faced with their mortality or those whose loved ones are embarking on their end of life journey.
The term “doula”, commonplace in the birth and deathcare worlds, traces its root to the Greek word doulē - the feminine form of doulos, meaning “slave” or devoted servant. It’s that same root, doulos, that I’ve chosen for my role as an end-of-life specialist.
As the birth doula movement of the 1960s began to take shape, more and more female-identifying workers stepped into the role of non-medical caregiver, guide, companion, and emotional supporter to women who were seeking alternatives to the structured system of hospital-based healthcare for giving birth.
The work of death doulas began informally in the early 2000s, inspired by the work of birth doulas, with a thoughtful acknowledgement that as we enter this world, so must we leave it. Companionship, advocacy, presence, guidance, encouragement, and honoring the uniqueness of each experience are all equally as important upon death as they are at the start of life.
The International End of Life Doula Association was formed in 2015 and began structuring the model for the important role that death doulas play at the end of life in partnership with other members in the end of life circle of care.
Today, there are over 9,000 INELDA-trained and certified death doulas in over 50 countries around the world and I am proud to be among such a distinguished group of deathcare and end-of-life specialists.
About Adam
Adam Jenkins is a professional registered nurse, INELDA-trained death doulos, and a long-time advocate for increasing death awareness and improving access and education around deathcare and end-of-life services. A passionate educator, Adam believes every person has the right to be informed accurately and given the autonomy to decide how they want to die. Adam was initially called to end-of-life care following the death of his grandfather, Norman, and his passion was further deepened while at the bedside of his mother, Janet, in her final days. His work centers on thoughtful planning, honest conversation, and informed choice - tools that allow people to approach their own mortality on their own terms. When the hour arrives, Adam works tirelessly and in collaboration with family and care team members to ensure those wishes are honored.
