When a loved one dies, there are two primary options: burial and cremation. Burial involves putting the body into a casket and lowering it into the ground at a cemetery. Cremation involves burning the body in a cremator and collecting the ashes into a vessel that goes to the family. A study of 1500 participants showed that more Americans want to be cremated (44%) than buried (35%), a drastic increase from just 1960. Learn about why more people are opting for cremation over burial. 

Cost

Cremations cost significantly less than burials. The average burial costs $7360, while cremations start at around $500. Many people don't have the funds for burial. Not only do you need to pay for the preparation of the body, but you also need to pay for the casket, cemetery plot, and headstone. Cremations offer a much more cost-effective option, but some people will opt for cremation based on family traditions or religious beliefs.

Takes Up Less Space

Cemeteries bury an average of 1250 bodies per acre. Since roughly 2.5 million people die each year, it would take about an additional 2,000 acres of space every year to bury everyone. Space will eventually run out. When people choose cremation, they choose not to contribute to the current crowding problems in cemeteries. 

Multiple Family Members Can Have Part of their Loved One

Family members may pass on to the next realm, but they don't leave us. Some people find comfort in having a piece of their loved one with them, even if that means they have their loved one's ashes in an urn. It's possible to talk to your cremation services representative to separate the ashes among multiple people in the family so everyone can experience comfort. 

More Options For Location of Final Resting Place

Once a family member receives the urn with ashes, they have multiple options. The family member can keep the ashes. Alternatively, they can spread the ashes at one of their loved one's favorite locations, such as the beach or their childhood home. Some people even put the ashes into jewelry or another form of decoration. The options are endless, and people can personalize their relationship with their loved ones after they leave the terrestrial plane.

Both burial and cremation make great options. Ultimately, you want to follow your loved one's wishes to the best of your ability. Don't forget to make your own wishes clear for your own future send-off.

Reach out to a cremation services funeral home for more details.