As Australia braces for a significant demographic shift, with projections suggesting a doubling of the annual death rate by 2040, Dr. Hannah Gould—a death scholar and author—urges society to rethink our conversations surrounding mortality. With the influx of baby boomers, termed “boomergeddon,” Dr. Gould advocates for understanding the values of autonomy, control, and the modern perspectives on a “good death.”
Understanding “Boomergeddon”
By 2040, the landscape of death in Australia is expected to undergo a seismic change. The aging baby boomer population will lead to an unprecedented increase in the death rate, placing enormous pressure on both healthcare and deathcare systems. Dr. Gould, who teaches Buddhist Studies at the University of Melbourne, describes this impending shift as “boomergeddon,” highlighting how it will redefine societal expectations and perceptions of death.
“The overwhelming value of end-of-life decisions, especially among baby boomers, is the desire for autonomy and control,” she explains. Paradoxically, while many seek to choreograph their exit with bespoke solutions—ranging from personalised medical interventions to unique burial options—the reality may not always align with these desires.
The Myths of Green Death
Increasingly, discussions around death are taking on a more eco-conscious tone, with many envisioning a “green death” as a return to nature. Dr. Gould, however, expresses concern that such ideals can often be overly simplistic. “The notion of a green death is frequently naïve,” she asserts, pointing out that it often overlooks the realities of deathcare logistics, as well as the welfare of those working within this sector.
Her experiences during her PhD, including working in crematoriums and funeral homes, have positioned her as a strong advocate for the rights and well-being of deathcare professionals. “As funeral demands become more elaborate, we must consider the psychological toll on workers,” she warns. With rising expectations comes increased responsibility, and the consequences of these demands can be detrimental to those tasked with facilitating our final journeys.
The Changing Landscape of Funeral Practices
As society evolves, so too do the options for how we choose to honour our loved ones. From space burials to eco-friendly shrouds, Dr. Gould notes that the trend towards personalised funerals is on the rise. “People are increasingly interested in creative and unconventional ways to say goodbye,” she observes. However, she cautions that this enthusiasm can lead to unrealistic expectations.
“Many individuals naively ask to be buried in a meadow with a sapling planted on top, unaware that such practices can harm the environment,” she explains. Furthermore, she stresses the importance of being informed consumers in this evolving market, particularly as new technologies emerge with bold claims that often lack rigorous environmental validation.
The Importance of Conversations About Death
Despite the growing complexity of death and dying, society remains hesitant to engage in discussions about mortality. Dr. Gould warns that reliance on technology, such as AI-driven grief companions, may further entrench our fear of death. “By outsourcing these human experiences to a machine, we risk losing the essential connections that come from confronting mortality in our relationships,” she cautions.
While her book, *How to Die in the 21st Century*, delves into various aspects of mortality—ranging from contemplating death to memorialisation—Dr. Gould confesses she has not completed her own death planning. Yet, she offers a vital piece of advice: “Know who your legal next of kin is. If you have concerns about that person making decisions on your behalf, take action now.”
Why it Matters
Dr. Gould’s insights challenge us to confront our perceptions of death and the autonomy we wish to claim over our final moments. As the demographic landscape shifts and our understanding of death evolves, it is crucial to foster open conversations about our desires and fears surrounding mortality. By doing so, we empower ourselves and our loved ones to navigate the complexities of dying with dignity, compassion, and informed choice.
