As Australia braces for a significant rise in its annual death rate, propelled by the ageing baby boomer population, Dr Hannah Gould, an expert in the field of death and dying, emphasises the critical need for open conversations about mortality and personal choice. Her insights reveal a shifting landscape in how individuals approach the end of life, advocating for autonomy while also cautioning against naivety regarding deathcare practices.
The Rise of “Boomergeddon”
By 2040, projections indicate that Australia will experience a peak in mortality rates, with estimates suggesting the annual death toll could double compared to current figures. This surge, which Dr Gould has termed “boomergeddon”, is anticipated to create considerable strain on healthcare and deathcare systems nationwide.
Dr Gould highlights the importance of autonomy in end-of-life decisions, particularly among the baby boomer demographic. “The overwhelming value of end-of-life decisions is this value of right, autonomy and control,” she explains. This perspective marks a departure from traditional views, where death was often seen as a shared experience rather than a highly individualised one.
Rethinking the Concept of a “Good Death”
In her role as a death scholar and author of *How to Die in the 21st Century*, Dr Gould explores what constitutes a “good death”. She notes that the current generation appears to have a desire for bespoke end-of-life experiences, from personalised medical interventions to unique burial options. Yet, she warns that this pursuit of control can be overwhelming.
For Dr Gould, who also lectures in Buddhist Studies at the University of Melbourne, the concept of a “green death” is often idealised. “People envision a peaceful return to nature, but they often lack understanding of the realities involved in deathcare,” she cautions. The increasing demand for elaborate funeral arrangements can unintentionally place burdens on those working within the deathcare industry, creating what she describes as a “gritty and real” challenge for professionals in the field.
The Human Element in Mortality
Despite an increasing array of technological advancements and choices related to death, society still grapples with the discomfort surrounding discussions of mortality. Dr Gould points out that even as options expand, the reliance on technology, such as AI-assisted grief companions, can further alienate individuals from the human experience of dying and caring for loved ones.
“More fundamentally, it robs people of being carers,” she states. The act of confronting mortality—whether through conversations with family or making personal choices—remains a deeply human experience, one that should ideally involve genuine human connection rather than automated solutions.
Practical Steps for End-of-Life Planning
In her book, Dr Gould outlines essential lessons on mortality, emphasising the importance of proactive planning. While she admits to not having completed much of her own end-of-life administration, she offers one crucial piece of advice: “Know who your legal next of kin is.” This simple step can prevent potential distress during an already challenging time, especially for individuals in non-traditional family structures.
Communication of one’s wishes is equally vital. Dr Gould suggests that discussions about death need not be daunting; they can start with informal notes or conversations about preferences for medical treatment and funeral arrangements. “It doesn’t have to be a big, scary conversation,” she reassures. A straightforward note on the fridge can initiate these important discussions.
Why it Matters
As we face an ageing population and an imminent rise in mortality rates, the conversations we have about death become increasingly important. Dr Gould’s insights reveal the necessity of balancing the desire for autonomy with compassion for the realities faced by deathcare professionals. By fostering open dialogues around mortality, we not only empower ourselves but also honour the experiences of those who navigate the complexities of end-of-life decisions. In doing so, we can cultivate a more humane approach to one of life’s most inevitable realities.
