Death Scholar Warns of 'Boomergeddon' and the Illusion of Control in Dying
Dr Hannah Gould, a death scholar and author of How to Die in the 21st Century, highlights a looming crisis as Australia approaches 'peak death' around 2040. This surge, driven by the ageing baby boomer generation, is set to double annual death rates, straining healthcare and deathcare systems. Gould terms this phenomenon 'boomergeddon,' noting it brings specific expectations about what constitutes a good death.
'The overwhelming value of end-of-life decisions, particularly among the baby boomer population, is this value of right, autonomy and control,' says Gould, who lectures in Buddhist Studies at the University of Melbourne. She observes that choreographing one's final act—from bespoke aged care to unique burials—is increasingly feasible for those with resources. However, the pursuit of total control over death unsettles her, contrasting sharply with previous generations' views and potentially differing from millennials' perspectives.
Millennial Perspectives and the Reality of Resources
As a millennial herself, Gould questions the emphasis on control. 'I don't think millennials think they've got enough resources to be in control of anything,' she remarks, suggesting generational shifts in attitudes toward mortality. Her interest in death emerged from academic studies in comparative religion and personal experience, including losing her father at 23, which led her to critique simplistic labels like 'bad death' or 'losing a battle.'
Now a go-to expert, Gould fields diverse questions from journalists and the public, ranging from cremation concerns to pet grief. She embraces these conversations, noting that people often lack opportunities to discuss death openly. 'People never get the chance to ask about death, so once they get over the initial shock, they do love asking me,' she says, advocating for more dialogue in everyday settings.
Eco-Funerals and the Welfare of Death Workers
A key trend Gould identifies is the personalisation of funerals, with many desiring a return to nature. However, she cautions against naive notions of green burials. 'I always hear, "Can't you just put me into a nice meadow and put a sapling on top of me?"' Gould explains. 'But you will kill that tree. And also, where is this meadow?' She stresses that eco-friendly deathcare requires informed decisions and compassion for workers in the industry.
Having worked in crematoriums and funeral homes during her PhD, Gould advocates for the welfare of death workers. Research indicates that elaborate funeral demands can increase psychosocial hazards for these professionals. As independent providers rush to meet growing expectations, Gould warns of unchecked environmental claims in media reports on new technologies. 'There are a lot of promises made,' she says, highlighting regulatory gaps and public assumptions about safety and legality.
Societal Aversion and the Role of Technology
Despite expanding options, Gould notes society's persistent aversion to discussing death. She criticises trends like AI grief companions and AI-assisted advance care planning, arguing they deepen fears and deprive humans of meaningful caregiving experiences. 'More fundamentally, it robs people of being carers,' she cautions, emphasising the value of human connection in confronting mortality.
In her book, Gould offers six lessons on mortality, yet admits even she has minimal death admin in place. She urges one immediate action for everyone: 'Know who your legal next of kin is,' advising changes if necessary, especially for marginalised groups like young queer individuals. Communication can be simple, she suggests, such as a Post-It note on the fridge, to ensure wishes are known and respected.
Ultimately, Gould calls for a balanced approach—advocating for personal wishes while fostering open conversations about death. As 'boomergeddon' approaches, her insights underscore the need for realism, compassion, and preparedness in navigating end-of-life decisions.
