As Australia approaches what some have termed “boomergeddon,” a significant shift in attitudes towards death and dying is emerging. By 2040, the country is expected to see its annual death rate double, largely driven by the ageing baby boomer population. Dr Hannah Gould, a prominent death scholar and author of *How to Die in the 21st Century*, delves into the complexities of end-of-life choices and the evolving landscape of deathcare, urging society to embrace a more realistic and compassionate dialogue around mortality.
The Changing Face of Death
Dr Gould describes the impending demographic shift as a “silver tsunami,” bringing forth a new set of expectations about what constitutes a “good death.” For many baby boomers, the focus is on autonomy, control, and personalised experiences. However, Gould cautions that the desire for total control can be misleading and potentially unattainable.
“The overwhelming value of end-of-life decisions, particularly among the baby boomer population, is this value of right, autonomy and control,” she explains. Yet she acknowledges that this perspective may not align with the realities faced by younger generations. In her view, millennials often feel deprived of the resources necessary to exert such control over their own lives, let alone their deaths.
Unpacking the Concept of “Green Death”
With increasing interest in eco-funerals and sustainable practices, Dr Gould highlights a naivety surrounding the concept of a “green death.” While many express a desire to be laid to rest in nature, she points out the practical and ethical ramifications of such choices.
“I always hear, ‘Can’t you just put me into a nice meadow and put a sapling on top of me?’” she remarks. “But you will kill that tree. And also, where is this meadow?” Such misconceptions can lead to unrealistic expectations about the deathcare process, which is often overlooked in favour of more romanticised notions of dying.
The Human Element in Deathcare
Dr Gould’s journey into the world of death began unexpectedly. After experiencing the loss of her father at a young age, she became fascinated by how different cultures understand and commemorate death. Her academic background in comparative religion led her to specialise in religious materiality, particularly in the context of funerary practices.
She is now a trusted voice on death-related matters, often fielding questions from curious strangers about the logistics of funerals and the psychological impacts of grief. “People never get the chance to ask about death, so once they get over the initial shock, they do love asking me,” she shares. This openness, she believes, is crucial for dismantling the stigma surrounding conversations about dying.
The Urgency of Open Conversations
Despite the growing array of options for personalised funerals—ranging from space burials to elaborate themed send-offs—Dr Gould warns of the societal aversion to discussing death openly. She believes that advancements in technology, such as AI grief companions, can inadvertently distance us from the essential human experience of caring for the dying.
“This further entrenches this idea of us being afraid of death,” she argues. “More fundamentally, it robs people of being carers. The experience of confronting mortality through caring for someone who’s dying is a very human experience, and you are giving that job to a robot.”
A Practical Approach to Death Planning
While Dr Gould acknowledges the expanding choices available in deathcare, she emphasises the importance of planning ahead. She encourages everyone, regardless of age, to have conversations about their wishes regarding end-of-life care.
One key piece of advice she offers is to clarify your legal next of kin, particularly for those who may have contentious family relationships. “If you have a problem with that person making your decisions, change that person,” she suggests. This simple yet vital step can ensure that your preferences are respected when the time comes.
Why it Matters
As society grapples with the realities of an ageing population and shifting attitudes towards death, the insights of experts like Dr Hannah Gould become increasingly vital. By fostering open conversations about mortality and dispelling myths surrounding the deathcare process, we can create a more compassionate and informed society. The choices we make about our end-of-life care not only reflect our values but also shape the experiences of those we leave behind. In embracing this dialogue, we can cultivate a culture that honours life, even in death.
