Society has evolved in such a way that few people in the developed world can rely on the support of a network of extended family or friends to participate in the upbringing of their children in a regular, ongoing way. But if we want to have any chance of getting back to a world where mothers have time to rest and recover post-birth, allowing them to nourish and bond with their babies, and parents are supported in the critically important work of raising children with love and connection, then we have to start asking for, and offering, help.

How did we get from home-based death care to a more medical one? The emergence of hospitals in the 20th century significantly changed how society viewed and experienced death in several important ways.

The hospice movement has had a global impact, with organizations and hospice services established in many countries. However, access to hospice and palliative care remains uneven across different regions due to healthcare disparities and varying cultural attitudes towards death and dying.

Death doulas, also known as end-of-life doulas or death midwives, are trained professionals who provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their families during the dying process.