Whenever a loved one passes, you have to make tough decisions. This can be hard to do while you're grieving, so it is better to have a plan in place before yourself or a close family member passes. If you or a loved one has been considering the possibility of cremation, here are a few key things you should know.
1. The Process
Cremation is the process of burning human or animal remains at a very high temperature, which reduces them to an ash-like powder. Cremation is one of the most ancient human practices and has been dated back to the early Stone Age, around 3000 BC.
The modern process of cremation has been in place for over a century and is now a part of a large industry. This process involves transporting the deceased to a special cremation facility. Most states mandate a 1 to 2 day waiting period, after which the body can be loaded into the cremation chamber and incinerated. This generally takes 2 to 3 hours. After the cremation is finished, the remains are removed and placed into whatever receptacle of your choosing.
2. The Cost
Cremation can be very affordable or extremely expensive, depending on the amount you wish to spend. Much of the price is dictated by what type of urn you wish to purchase as your loved one's final resting place. For this reason, cremation can cost as little as a few hundred dollars or many thousands. The average price is around $1,100, but this price does not include traditional funeral services.
3. The Receptacle
When most people think about cremation, they think about urns. But the truth is, there are numerous ways to lay a cremated body to rest. More and more unique cremation receptacles are being created. These unique containers range from personalized jewelry to living plant containers and plush stuffed animals.
Having a body cremated also does not mean you cannot have a traditional cemetery burial. Many cemeteries have areas dedicated to burying cremated remains, so family members can visit the grave whenever they desire. Another popular choice for a cremated loved one is scattering the ashes. Choosing a place the deceased loved to visit, be that land or sea, can be a beautiful way to honor their memory.
If you or a loved one is beginning to plan ahead for the future, look into funeral homes in your area that provide cremation and modify your will to make your wishes clear. That way your family has one less thing to think about.
Share13 May 2015
When someone that you love passes away, it isn't always easy to focus on creating a lovely event for your friends and family members. Unfortunately, when it comes to holding a nice memorial service, it is important to know how to stay calm and organized—even during stressful times. I have worked in the funeral industry for a long time, and I know what it takes to create a beautiful funeral. This website will teach you everything you need to know to plan a funeral service. In addition to teaching you how to write a eulogy and how to choose great flowers, you might even learn how to save money on the next service you have to plan.