Indigenous End-of-Life Doula Course: Bringing the Culture Home

Abstract

Many Indigenous people who live on their traditional territory die in hospital when their preference is to enter the spirit world from their home. Indigenous people in Canada describe experiencing many barriers that prevent them from making this final choice in life. The First Nations Health Authority in British Columbia (BC), Canada, in collaboration with Douglas College, offered end-of- life doula training classes to Indigenous people in BC in 2019. The goal was to build on the strengths of community members already supporting people and their families during their final journey into the spirit world. There were 86 participants (72% identified as Indigenous) from the five health regions in BC, representing 47 Indigenous communities. Participants were overwhelmingly satisfied with the five-day course and planned to take their new learnings back to their community. It was noted, however, that this course would benefit from adaptations, including a greater emphasis on traditional Indigenous practices, facilitation tips, and strategies to support people through loss and bereavement. Furthermore, the term “end-of-life doula” is sometimes associated with a for-profit business, which is counterintuitive to traditional Indigenous practices, highlighting the necessity for a name change. Further evaluation over the next year is necessary to confirm that the course makes a positive difference in the final journey for Indigenous people.