Cremation has been a part of human history for thousands of years. Some families choose it because of tradition, others for environmental reasons, and some because it costs less than burial.
In the United States, about 61% of families choose cremation. Many of them use a full-service funeral home, which provides all the necessary facilities. Families often hold a funeral service before or after the cremation.
A funeral service is an important way to honor a loved one’s life. It also helps family and friends begin the healing process. The ceremony can be as simple or elaborate as you want.
Cremation is just another option for handling a person’s remains. It should not change the quality of services a funeral home provides. A good funeral home will treat cremation families with the same respect as those choosing burial.
Unfortunately, some funeral homes act as if cremation is a lesser choice. This is not true. Cremation is not an inferior option in any way. A professional funeral home will show the same care and compassion to all families.
Discount Cremation Services
In the last ten years, more discount cremation providers have appeared across the country. These companies often charge lower prices, but they do not offer the same level of service as a full-service funeral home.
If you are considering using a discount cremation company, ask these six important questions:
- Where will your loved one be kept before cremation? Is the facility clean and secure? Can you visit it?
- If they use an outside crematory, where is it? Does it meet state health regulations?
- Who transports your loved one? Will they be taken in a private vehicle or with other deceased persons?
- Can family members say goodbye before the cremation? If so, where will it happen, and will a staff member be present?
- Can the family watch the cremation or inspect the crematory at any time?
- How does the company make sure the correct ashes are returned? (Mistakes can happen.)
With cremation, accuracy is critical. There is no room for error.
What Happens After Cremation?
Once the cremation is complete, the ashes are returned in a simple container. The question is—what happens next?
Some families place the ashes in a decorative urn and keep them at home. This may work for a while, but it is not a permanent solution.
As people move or downsize, urns can end up in storage. Future generations may struggle with what to do with them.
Choosing a Final Resting Place
There are two things to consider: where to place or scatter the ashes and where to put a marker.
Most people focus on where to place the ashes. However, the marker’s location is just as important—if not more.
Once a person has been buried or cremated, you will never see their body again. But a marker with their name remains. You can visit it as often as you like. Seeing their name can bring back fond memories and provide a place to reflect.
Final Thoughts
Some people choose cremation because they think it’s the simplest option. But as you can see, there are many details to consider.
Taking the time to plan can help ensure your loved one is honored in a way that feels right for you and your family.