American Cremation

Death is an inevitable part of life, and how we choose to honour our loved ones after they've passed can vary greatly. One method that is becoming increasingly popular in America is cremation. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this shift, the process involved, and the unique ways in which ashes can be commemorated.

Why American Cremation is on the Rise

Australia isn’t the only country experiencing a rise in cremations. In America, the rate of cremations is now over 50%. A few reasons for this include its affordability, flexibility, and decreasing religious stigma.

Affordability

The cost of burial in the U.S. can be quite pricey, often reaching into the tens of thousands. Cremation, on the other hand, is a more cost-effective alternative, often costing a fraction of the price of a traditional burial.

Flexibility

Cremation offers more flexibility when it comes to memorialising loved ones. Ashes can be kept, scattered or used in various commemorative artefacts, allowing individuals to be remembered in a manner that reflects their unique personalities and preferences.

Decreasing Religious Stigma

There’s also a diminishing religious stigma around cremation, with more religions accepting it as a viable method of laying loved ones to rest.

The American Cremation Process

Cremation in America follows a set legal process to ensure the respectful and dignified handling of deceased loved ones. From obtaining necessary permissions to the actual cremation process and returning the ashes, every step is undertaken with utmost care.

Commemorating with Ashes

Cremation allows for a variety of unique commemorations that would be otherwise impossible with traditional burial. From ash-infused jewellery to memorial tattoos, friends and relatives have numerous opportunities to remember their loved ones.

American Cremation Example:

Example: Remembering Mark

When his best friend Mark passed away, John chose to commemorate him with a small pendant holding a fraction of Mark’s ashes. John wears the pendant daily; Mark is not only remembered but also continues to be a part of the important moments in his life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing a body to ashes and bone fragments through exposure to high heat and flame. It is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional burial and serves as a method of final disposition of the remains.

How popular is cremation in the United States?

Cremation has seen a rise in popularity in the United States over the years. According to recent statistics, it has surpassed traditional burial as the most popular end-of-life option, with more than half of the deceased being cremated.

What are the main reasons people choose cremation?

There are several reasons why individuals may opt for cremation. These include the cost-effectiveness compared to traditional burial, environmental concerns, the flexibility in memorial services, and the ability to easily transport and keep the remains with family members.

Can cremation be part of a traditional funeral service?

Yes, cremation can be incorporated into a traditional funeral service. Many families choose to have a viewing or visitation before the cremation, and a funeral or memorial service can be conducted with the cremated remains present.

How much does cremation typically cost?

The cost of cremation can vary, but it is typically less expensive than traditional burial. On average, cremation costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the services chosen, the region, and the provider.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

After cremation, the ashes, also known as cremains, are typically returned to the family in an urn or other container. The family can then decide whether to keep them, scatter them, bury them, or place them in a columbarium.

Are there restrictions on where ashes can be scattered?

Yes, there are restrictions on scattering ashes, which can vary depending on local laws and regulations. It is important to obtain the necessary permits and permissions, especially when scattering on public or federal lands, and to also respect environmental guidelines.

Is embalming required for cremation?

Embalming is not typically required for cremation, especially if the cremation will be performed soon after death. However, some funeral homes may require embalming if there is a public visitation or viewing before the cremation.

Can family members witness the cremation?

Many crematories allow family members to witness the cremation process. This request should be arranged in advance with the crematory or funeral home.

How is the identity of the deceased assured during cremation?

Reputable crematories follow strict procedures to ensure the identity of the deceased. This typically involves thorough paperwork, identification tags, and checks at various points in the process. Family members may also be asked to identify the deceased before cremation.

Can multiple cremations be performed at once?

By law, crematories are required to cremate one body at a time in individual cremation chambers, unless the family has explicitly requested for multiple family members to be cremated together, subject to crematory policies.

What types of urns are available?

Urns come in a variety of materials, sizes, and designs, ranging from simple containers to elaborate artistic pieces. Common materials used for urns include metal, wood, stone, ceramic, biodegradable substances, and even glass.

Can personal items be cremated with the deceased?

Some personal items can be cremated with the deceased, depending on the crematory's policies. Non-combustible materials, batteries, and items that could potentially be hazardous during the cremation process are generally not allowed.

What are the environmental impacts of cremation?

Cremation does have environmental impacts, such as the release of greenhouse gases and mercury emissions from dental amalgam. However, technological advancements have reduced its carbon footprint, and green cremations are emerging as a more eco-friendly option.

How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process itself typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the body, the type of cremation chamber, and the temperature used. The entire process including paperwork and cooldown of the remains can take a few days.

Can cremated remains be divided among family members?

Yes, it is possible to divide cremated remains among family members. This is often done when relatives wish to keep a portion of the ashes or to scatter them in different locations.

Is a casket needed for cremation?

A traditional casket is not required for cremation. However, most states require a combustible, rigid, covered container for dignified handling of the body. Rental caskets or alternative containers designed for cremation are common options.

Are there alternatives to traditional cremation?

Yes, there are alternatives to traditional cremation, such as alkaline hydrolysis, also known as bio-cremation or water cremation, and more recently, natural organic reduction, known as human composting. These alternatives are considered more environmentally friendly, but availability depends on local laws.

Can cremation be prearranged?

Yes, cremation services can be prearranged. This allows individuals to plan and pay for their own cremation in advance, which can alleviate the financial and planning burden from loved ones during a time of grief.

How should one choose a cremation provider?

When choosing a cremation provider, consider factors such as reputation, costs, services offered, and the provider's adherence to legal and ethical standards. It's advisable to compare providers, read reviews, and potentially visit the facility before making a decision.

Can someone be cremated with their pet's ashes?

Some crematories allow human remains to be cremated along with a pet's ashes, but this policy varies. It is important to discuss such a request with the cremation provider to determine if it is permissible under their regulations.

What happens if there is no one to claim the ashes?

If no one claims the ashes of the deceased, the cremation provider will retain the ashes for a mandated period of time, as specified by state law. If after that period the ashes are still unclaimed, the provider may dispose of the ashes in a dignified manner, often in a communal grave or scattering garden.

Dealing with loss can be incredibly difficult, and the myriad decisions to make during this time can be overwhelming. Understanding the process and benefits of American cremation may facilitate your decision-making at this challenging time. We hope this informative guide has been helpful in explaining why American cremation is on the rise. If you found it useful, please share with others, and explore other guides on Eulogy Assistant to gain further insight.