Precedents

“Until the early 20th century people died at home with loved ones but now they die alone in a hospital or nursing home.” [1] In fact in Japan as of 2017 there are 4,000 deaths a day, which is why the trend has now been coined “kodokushi” or “lonely death.” [1] Given this fact, it is important that we consider technology that can help make the experience of death a more positive one. Projects such as Constellation Park by Columbia University are helping people have a more peaceful interpretation of death and similarly the Modern Elder Academy in Baja California Sur, Mexico, is helping to transform the way people view death so that they can ultimately see a “good death as part of a well life.” [1] As places like this are created, we should think of how we can have technology enhance the experience.