As Australia anticipates a significant increase in its mortality rate by 2040—a phenomenon Dr. Hannah Gould labels “boomergeddon”—the cultural conversation surrounding death and dying is evolving. With the baby boomer generation projected to double the annual death rate, there is a pressing need to re-examine our understanding of what constitutes a “good death.” Dr. Gould, a death scholar and author of *How to Die in the 21st Century*, advocates for autonomy and control in end-of-life decisions, while also cautioning against the naivety often associated with modern funeral practices.
The Shift in Perception of Death
Dr. Gould observes that the current discourse around death reflects a dramatic shift from previous generations. The baby boomer population places immense value on personal agency and the right to dictate their final moments. “The overwhelming value of end-of-life decisions is this value of right, autonomy and control,” she explains. However, this quest for control can lead to unrealistic expectations, particularly for younger generations, such as millennials, who may feel they lack the resources to exert such influence.
This generational divide raises intriguing questions about how various age groups perceive death. While baby boomers seek to tailor their end-of-life experiences, Dr. Gould reflects on her own experience as a millennial, stating, “Control is a value that I’ve never felt I could claim.” This disparity highlights a growing concern about the pressures young people face regarding their mortality and legacy.
The Personalisation of Funerals
As the landscape of deathcare continues to evolve, Dr. Gould notes a notable trend towards the personalisation of funerals. From bespoke services to eco-friendly practices, the options seem limitless for those with the means to pursue them. However, she warns that many individuals hold a naïve understanding of what a “green death” entails. “People often ask to be placed in a meadow with a sapling planted above them,” she remarks, adding, “But you will kill that tree. And also, where is this meadow?”
Dr. Gould’s extensive experience in the field, including her work in crematoriums and funeral homes, has made her an advocate for the welfare of death workers. As funeral demands become more complex and elaborate, the psychosocial burdens on those in the profession increase, raising ethical questions about consumer expectations in deathcare.
The Challenges of Emerging Technologies
In an age of rapid technological advancement, society’s relationship with death is also being reshaped by innovations such as AI grief companions and automated advance care planning. Dr. Gould expresses concern that these tools may reinforce societal fears around mortality. “This further entrenches the idea of us being afraid of death,” she cautions. “You are giving that job to a robot,” which robs individuals of the deeply human experience of caring for someone who is dying.
Despite the exciting potential of new technologies, Dr. Gould emphasises the need for transparency and accountability within the deathcare industry. Many individuals assume that these emerging practices are regulated and safe, yet she argues that this is not always the case. “There are a lot of promises made,” she warns, urging the public to be informed consumers.
One Essential Action for Everyone
Dr. Gould’s book outlines six essential lessons about mortality, yet she admits that even she has not fully addressed her own end-of-life plans. “I have a will,” she states, “but no one really does much death admin.” Nevertheless, she strongly advocates for one crucial step that everyone should take: “Know who your legal next of kin is. If you have a problem with that person making your decisions, change that person.” This advice is particularly relevant for young people, especially those in non-traditional family structures or with complex relationships.
Communication is key. Dr. Gould suggests that having a simple conversation or even leaving a note can help ensure that one’s wishes are respected when the time comes. “It doesn’t have to be a big, scary conversation,” she insists.
Why it Matters
As we move towards a future where mortality rates will rise dramatically, the importance of understanding and discussing death becomes ever more critical. Dr. Gould’s insights challenge us to confront our fears about dying and to engage in meaningful conversations about our end-of-life wishes. By embracing autonomy and compassion in deathcare, we can create a more informed society that respects both individual desires and the realities of those who provide care in our final moments.
