Simple Choice Cremation

What is Cremation, and Why is it Becoming So Popular?

Cremation is a dignified and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial. It involves the use of high-temperature flames to reduce a deceased person's body to its basic elements, resulting in a container of ashes, or cremated remains. With cremation, you can choose from various memorialization options, from scattering the ashes in a special location to keeping them in an urn or burial plot.

The popularity of cremation is growing rapidly, with over 50% of Americans opting for it in 2020. This trend is driven by factors such as cost, environmental concerns, and the desire for a more personalized farewell.

The Benefits of Cremation: A Simple, Affordable, and Eco-Friendly Choice

Cremation offers several advantages over traditional burial, including:

• Cost-effectiveness: Cremation can be up to 50% less expensive than traditional burial, making it a more accessible option for many families.
• Environmental benefits: Cremation requires minimal land use, reduces carbon emissions, and eliminates the need for embalming chemicals.
• Flexibility: With cremation, you can choose from various memorialization options, allowing you to personalize the farewell process.
• Simplicity: Cremation streamlines the funeral process, reducing the complexity and stress associated with traditional burial arrangements.

The Cremation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

While the thought of cremation might seem overwhelming, the process is relatively straightforward. Here's an overview of what to expect:

1. Initial arrangements: Contact a cremation provider or funeral home to discuss your options and make arrangements.
2. Transportation: The deceased is transported to the cremation facility.
3. Preparation: The body is prepared for cremation, which may include washing, dressing, and placing it in a cremation container.
4. Cremation: The body is cremated using high-temperature flames, resulting in a container of ashes.
5. Return of ashes: The cremated remains are returned to you, usually within a few days.

Cremation Options: Choosing the Right Memorialization for Your Loved One

With cremation, you have numerous options for memorializing your loved one. Some popular choices include:

• Urn burial: Burying the ashes in a cemetery or memorial garden.
• Scattering: Releasing the ashes in a special location, such as a park, ocean, or mountain.
• Home storage: Keeping the ashes in an urn or container at home.
• Tree planting: Planting a tree or flowers using the ashes as fertilizer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some common questions and answers about cremation:

1. Is cremation a safe process?

Yes, cremation is a safe and regulated process, with strict guidelines in place to ensure the dignity and respect of the deceased.

2. Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation?

Absolutely. You can hold a funeral or memorial service before or after the cremation process, allowing you to honor your loved one in a meaningful way.

3. How do I know I'm getting the right ashes back?

Reputable cremation providers use identification systems to ensure that the ashes returned to you are those of your loved one.

4. Can I divide the ashes among family members?

Yes, you can divide the ashes among family members or friends, allowing multiple people to keep a portion of the cremated remains.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

Losing a loved one can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. Here are some resources and support options to help you navigate the grieving process:

• Grief counseling: Reach out to a professional counselor or therapist who can provide guidance and support.
• Support groups: Join a local support group or online community to connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.
• Online resources: Utilize online resources, such as bereavement websites and forums, to access information and connect with others.