The New Thing: Death Cafes?

NEW YORK (AP) — For the person who wants to talk about death, it can be tough to get a conversation going.

Growing numbers of people have been gathering in small group meetings known as Death Cafes to discuss subjects ranging from suicide to estate planning.

The idea is to provide a place where death can be discussed comfortably, without fear of violating taboos or of being mocked for bringing up the subject.

Participants say getting comfortable with death enriches life.

Inspired by a Swiss sociologist, a Londoner started Death Cafes in 2011. They have spread quickly across the U.S., and nearly 300 such gatherings have already been held in churches, restaurants and homes.

They appear to be drawing especially well among baby boomers.