The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared

Abstract

In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos speaks with Francesca Arnoldy, a death doula and author of The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared. Arnoldy explains what death doulas do and how they can help patients prepare for end-of-life care. She discusses the similarities between birth doulas and death doulas, both of whom provide emotional support during major life transitions. Arnoldy also talks about the importance of death wellness and how to practice memento mori, or remembering death. She emphasizes the need for individuals to reflect on their lives, think about their mortality, and plan for end-of-life care, including practical steps such as creating legal documents and organizing belongings. Arnoldy also discusses the role of death doulas in working alongside hospice and palliative care providers and collaborating with physicians.