Today, 40% of deaths in America involve the cremation process, which shows a substantial increase over the past decades. People are choosing cremation over ground burial for a variety of reasons, such as diminished adherence to religious tenets and family traditions. This guide explores the most important factors of cremation to help families determine if this form of body disposition is the appropriate choice.
Low Cost
Generally, cremation is less costly than a casketed interment following a wake and a ceremony. According to the NFDA (National Funeral Directors Association), the average cost of a funeral in the US is over $6000, which doesn’t include the plot, headstone or other costs. By comparison, the average cremation cost is just $1650, including a limited memorial and an urn.
When considering cremation costs in Escondido CA, clients should consider that cremation is not a rejection of or an alternative to a conventional funeral. Rather, it is merely an option for body disposition. If a family chooses cremation, they can still have a visitation and a funeral ceremony if they desire. However, direct cremation-;where the body is cremated without a service-;can cost under $1000.
Flexible Options
Because the decomposition process starts so soon in an unembalmed body, a funeral service and burial usually occur quickly after a person’s death. Because family members need to make funeral arrangements and allow time for faraway loved ones to travel, services typically occur within 10 days of death, with religious traditions and family desires playing an important role.
However, after a cremation, there is no rush to do anything with the remains. It is quite common for families to hold a private viewing before cremation, and to have a memorial service later. This allows the family to focus on grieving without dealing with the tedious details of funeral planning.
There are multiple options for the disposition of a body, and cremation is a viable choice for many families. Many options concerning cremated remains require no land use, such as scattering or keeping them in an urn. By learning the basics of cremation, families can make an informed decision when the time comes.