End-of-Life Care in Nursing Homes | Inclusive Support for Neurodivergent Residents
Inclusive End-of-Life Care in Nursing Homes: Supporting Neurodivergent Residents
Providing quality end-of-life care in nursing homes is always a delicate responsibility. Residents deserve dignity, compassion, and a care approach that respects their unique needs. When residents are neurodivergent — whether autistic, ADHD, or otherwise — the challenges can be even more complex.
This is where death doulas can play an important role, working alongside nursing home staff to ensure every resident feels seen, respected, and supported.
Why End-of-Life Care Matters in Nursing Home
End-of-life care is more than medical treatment. It involves:
Emotional support: Helping residents feel safe, heard, and valued
Practical guidance: Assisting families with planning and communication
Spiritual and personal care: Honouring the beliefs, values, and rituals that matter most
In busy nursing homes, staff often have limited time to sit with residents and families. A death doula can complement this care, bringing extra presence and emotional support.
Inclusivity and Neurodivergence in End-of-Life Care
Neurodivergent residents may experience death and dying differently. They might communicate in unique ways, have sensory needs, or rely on routines that give them comfort. Inclusivity means recognising and adapting to these needs.
Death doulas can help by:
Offering sensory-aware environments (quiet spaces, soothing textures, minimising overstimulation)
Communicating in clear, direct, and respectful language
Supporting staff with training and awareness about neurodivergent experiences
Encouraging family collaboration to understand what feels most supportive
How Nursing Homes Benefit From Death Doula Support
Enhanced resident experience: Greater dignity, autonomy, and comfort at end of life
Reduced family stress: Families feel reassured their loved one’s unique needs are understood
Staff support: Doulas can provide guidance, easing the emotional burden for care teams
Community trust: Nursing homes known for inclusive, compassionate care stand out to families seeking placements
Inclusive end-of-life care should be the standard, not the exception. By partnering with death doulas, nursing homes can ensure every resident, neurodivergent or not, receives the compassion, respect, and personalised care they deserve at the end of life.
To learn more about how inclusive end-of-life support could benefit your nursing home, book a free consultation.