Is Cremation The Right Choice For Your Loved One? Compassionate Considerations To Help You Decide

When a loved one passes without leaving directions for their final arrangements, it is up to their remaining family members to make some difficult decisions. Religion and family customs can sometimes help direct the process, but ultimately a spouse, sibling, parent, child, or other relative or loved one will have to choose the type of service and whether to inter or cremate the remains. If you or someone you love is faced with making these difficult decisions and are unsure of which to choose, here are some compassionate reasons to consider cremation that may help you decide. 

Considering future needs

As the world population grows, more land will be needed for growing food and housing. Cemeteries worldwide are already feeling the pressure of having too little space for the number of burial requests they expect to see in the near future. In addition to concerns about space, it is important to also think about who will care for the cemeteries in the future. While public or municipal cemeteries are usually funded through taxation and able to hire caretakers, small private cemeteries that depend upon volunteers for maintenance may have difficulties caring for graves in the future as families move away and memories fade. 

Comparing costs 

While it is difficult to think about at the time of a loss, the costs involved in the final arrangements for a loved one must be considered. This is especially true when the death was unexpected and the immediate family lacks the funds to cover the costs. Traditional funerals that include a service, casket, vault, cemetery plot, and headstone can add up to several thousand dollars. Since these charges are usually due in full immediately or within a very short time after the service, families may have to resort to taking on debt or crowdfunding to cover the cost. In contrast, a cremation can often be arranged and completed for a fraction of that cost, making it much easier for the decedent's family to afford. 

Scheduling concerns

Deciding when to hold the service for your loved one is another important decision that must be made following their death. If there are family members or friends who have settled in other states or countries, it may be impossible for them to attend the service on short notice. By opting for cremation, the surviving family members can schedule a fitting memorial as far into the future as needed to allow the loved ones to attend. 

While cremation is becoming increasingly popular, it is normal to have questions and concerns. To learn more about the process, costs, or other factors involved in cremation, take time to discuss the matter carefully with a funeral home or cremation service in your area, like Union Funeral Home-Lytwyn & Lytwyn, before making a final decision.