More people than ever are choosing cremation over burial in the United States. This is because cremations cost less, are easier to facilitate, provide more options for preserving the remains, and can be done in environmentally friendlier ways. With cremation jewelry, a large variety of urns and other options for ash storage, and the addition of hydro cremation options, along with a huge variety in full funeral service options, it’s easy to see why more and more people are going with cremation when it comes to making final arrangements for the care of their loved ones. If you’ve recently lost someone or are considering your funeral pre-plan and want to know more about the benefits of cremation, read on.
Cremation Options
One of the reasons cremation is becoming more popular is that there are more options when it comes to not only the cremation process but the handling of cremated remains as well. From fancy cremation containers and urns to jewelry and even the ability to mix cremains into tattoo ink, people are embracing the many choices that now come with the cremation process.
Some funeral homes in the United States even work with crematories that specialize in water cremations. These cremations mean less pollution and work well for people who don’t like the idea of flames. Funeral home directors can offer a variety of funeral services for those who have been cremated the same way they would with a traditional burial, too. From the convenience of transportation of the cremains to the options to personalize a cremation service, more people than ever are leaning this way.
In the middle of a global pandemic in which many funeral homes in the United States are overrun and different states have different rules and regulations around social distancing and group gatherings, a cremation is also an attractive option because it means family members could gather later for a memorial service or celebration of life. Some people are choosing to cremate those who have passed on now and planning large gatherings for after the pandemic is over. This makes sense not only for the sake of safety but for the logistics of traveling in the middle of a global pandemic.
Cost Benefits
For some, it simply boils down to practicality when it comes to cost-benefit. Cremations are much more affordable than traditional burials. In the United States, a cremation will cost about $7,000, while a burial will cost at least double. In the wake of a global pandemic, cremations are also more practical. With shutdowns, social distancing restrictions, and overrun funeral homes, some families are adding convenience to that same cost-benefit. That is, because live and in-person services are harder right now, for some people, it makes more sense to cremate those who have passed on and postpone memorial ceremonies for later on when a family can gather safely.
Some families are bringing ashes home and planning memorial services after the global pandemic is done. They’ll spread their loved one’s ashes then. In the meantime, they’re still getting that same cost-benefit they wouldn’t get with a traditional burial that might still mean restrictions and only virtual services.
For those who are more practical and are inclined toward budgeting, tax strategies, and savvy financial thinking, cremations are the way to go. While it’s unlikely anyone in the stages of grief is worried about tax brackets and capital gains, they could most certainly be concerned about the final tally when it comes to a traditional burial that includes an expensive casket and plot at the local cemetery. The reality is that money matters and no funeral service—whether cremation or burial—is cheap.
Viewing Services Options and Closure
For those who want a funeral service, final viewing, or memorial service immediately, there are still many options in spite of Covid-19. Your funeral director can help you to work within local and federal government guidelines to adhere to regulations. Many people believe that cremation means they can’t have a wake or final viewing for their loved one. This isn’t the case. Many families opt for traditional final visitations for people to say goodbye before sending their loved one’s remains to the crematory. In cases like these, families can opt to rent a casket for viewing hours. This option can provide the closure some people may need.
People deal with grief differently. Maybe the last thing you want to think about is your loved one’s final funeral arrangements. Perhaps you aren’t ready to consider life without that special someone in your life. That’s entirely normal. Take your time and surround yourself with a good support system. Take time to cry. Give yourself permission to engage in self-care the way you normally would. If your beauty routine was important or makes you feel better, it’s okay to pull out a nail sticker set or to color your hair. Not every second has to be spent thinking about your loss and leaving the final details up to a funeral director is allowed.
In the end, whether planning your own cremation or that of a loved one, you’ll want to take some time with your final decision. When talking to a funeral home director about arrangements, don’t hesitate to ask questions and voice your concerns. They’ve heard them before and will be happy to answer anything needed to give you peace of mind.
