In this era of utilizing various forms of new media, anything
new relating to new media that is created will build upon any type of new media
already in existence today. A new type of “new media” that is not currently in
place is for matters relating to the death care industry. Technology makes our
lives easier during our lifetime, so it should also extend to our treatment
after death. It is an unavoidable part of our lives, and these sad events can
be difficult to plan without proper guidance and research. To avoid hardships
for families dealing with loss, I propose that the use of virtual reality software,
computer software, and a mobile application can be used by the relevant parties
such as funeral directors. These new media technologies can be used when interacting
directly with families to streamline and simplify the process of services, method
of final deposition for the remains, and selection of grave markers. From previous
research I have done on this topic, more transparency and clear dissemination
of facts to dispel misinformation is needed in the death care industry.
Interactive funeral planning using VR headsets can help
families visualize and plan the proper funeral or memorial service for their
departed loved one. Details about the services such as the placement and design
of floral arrangements, the color of the casket, and lighting can all be customized
to the family’s wishes. In addition, the design of the grave marker can be virtually
shown to the family using computer drawing software and can be confirmed by the
family to avoid any mistakes from being made on the physical headstone. The
mobile app can be used to confirm and check up on payment for the services and
grave marker, completion of the headstone, and even ask questions to the funeral
director themselves about any requirements before the scheduled service. This
also prevents funeral directors from overcharging the family for any services
that are rendered because a breakdown of the total price will be made available
promptly after making final arrangements.
Finally, one of the most important choices that must be made
by the family is selecting the method for the final disposition of the remains.
The most common choices are burial, fire-powered cremation, and donation to
science. An increasingly popular choice is water cremation. In fact, my
research for a feature article story in a previous journalism class revealed
that water cremation is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional
fired powered cremation. In many cases, it is also the same price as or is less
expensive than conventional cremation. However, this method of final disposition
is not currently legalized in all fifty states in America, and many individuals
have not even heard of this green alternative at all. With the use of a mobile
app, software, or relevant section on a company’s website, more information can
be spread to the public about those choices of final disposition as well as clarification
on common misconceptions about death and the death care industry. Furthermore, increased
support from customers or funeral home directors for environmentally sound methods
such as water cremation help to protect our world from more pollution and to
finally legalize this method in the U.S.
