Why cremation

With nearness, there can be a feeling of connectivity with the departed loved ones. Since there is often not room available for a full-size casket burial, many families can arrange to have the much smaller urn with cremated ashes buried with or near other loved ones and family members. Several comments on a Dear Abby column expressed the desire to be scattered or buried at multiple sites — on a family farm, in the ocean, a favorite spot on Prince Edward Island, back home in Germany, etc.

Many people choose to donate their bodies to medical science after their death. This can mean research, organ donation, or a combination of the two. Some prefer this as a means of generosity to others even after they have departed this life. Afterwards, the body is cremated and the remains are given back to the family, freeing your loved ones of the cost of cremation. Scuba divers and ocean lovers can have their remains become part of the Neptune Memorial Reef , an underwater mausoleum designed and maintained by the Neptune Society as a home for sea life and a destination for divers.

Browse cremation jewelry here. Modern technology allows cremated remains to be transformed into diamonds. Learn how here. Choosing cremation allows a great deal more flexibility regarding time. Time for people to make arrangements, time to plan something more meaningful, and time for family members and friends to be able to attend.

Cremation allows for time to plan a service that is thoughtful and for family to all make time to get there. It allows for months to pass after the death if need be. Cremated remains can be put into an attractive urn and kept in the home, often set on a mantle or bed stand, or as part of a special memorial space.

This allows your loved one to always be with you in a special way. I imagine that having that added flexibility would reduce a lot of the stress that planning a funeral entails.

My wife and I are getting older and have recently begun writing our last wills and testaments, maybe we should consider being cremated to reduce some of the stress caused by our passings. It would be nice to choose now what I want. However, in order to do that, I need to look at my options. It is truly a selfless gift and with cremation included at no-cost, the family does not have the burden of final expenses at a time when often it is emotionally and financially difficult and draining.

Phone: Why do people choose cremation? Apr 22, The key reasons why so many people are choosing cremation are: Separation of family across the U. Join the Science Care donor registry today. Why we do it. How we do it. News, guides, and more. The Better Place Blog. Get Started. Make an in-depth end-of-life plan. Take the Planning Basics Quiz. Plan your After Party. Instant Funeral Planning. Guide: Start the Conversation.

Let's start making a plan. Guided tour. Sign in. Our forests. How it works. Back Memorial and Burial Alternatives. Why do people choose cremation today? September 16, by Better Place Forests. Share this article. Environmentalism The popularity of cremation has grown alongside the environmental movement and greater awareness for the need to protect and appreciate nature.

Cremation removes the strict time constraints. It typically occurs soon after a person has passed, and the ashes are given to a designated family member. Afterward, the loved ones are free to take their time to plan meaningful memorials everyone can attend. Some families decide to scatter the ashes in special locations. Other families may purchase multiple urns so multiple members may keep their loved one near. Many families prefer traditional burial and memorial services, but consider how much the average American family has shifted in recent years.

Instead of staying close to home, people now have the ability to travel all around the world to:. Cremation opens up many options for memorial sites, and provides the opportunity to have multiple memorial locations. Final arrangements are incredibly personal. Some people see cremation as a spiritual element of their passing — ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

They may hope to return to the earth in their new form, no longer burdened by mortal bodies. A person may want their ashes to be scattered:. Some feel limited by strict doctrine and instead incorporate modern ideas into their faith — including cremation. Check to see if you need permission in advance for transporting them. Burial is rough on the planet for several reasons:. We receive so much from Earth in life that many people feel compelled to give back in death. Cremation typically skips burial altogether, and some even request having a tree planted in their honor.

Rec ent studies have shown a link in cremations and carbon dioxide emissions. Further, it takes a significant amount of energy to cremate someone. Research continues to solve the cremation pollution issue. Still, there is evidence that it is certainly less hazardous to the environmental in the long run than burial, especially if you choose a green cremation.

Some people find solace in being literally lain to rest, but others find it an upsetting idea. Claustrophobia can cause someone to feel frightened to think of being buried for eternity, especially with visitors walking over where they are buried.

Ultimately, the body breaks down, and no one wants to imagine it for themselves or a loved one. Others still might fear grave robbers will disturb their eternal slumber. Some feel very strongly about their fears or worries around it, so be as respectful as possible.

Despite their best efforts, some loved ones will struggle with the idea of cremation. If you are planning your own final arrangements , be sure to discuss your plans with loved ones. Whether you have a terminal illness or are planning far ahead, your family should learn your preference ahead of time.

Be prepared to hear out their concerns and answer questions. You might need to give some members of the family time to process your decision. They may be reconciling a conflict with their religious or personal beliefs, so allow them space. Be receptive, honest, and empathetic during every discussion. If there is an objection to cremation surrounding a recent loss in the family, gather everyone for a calm conversation. Allow yourselves to come up with some kind of understanding, especially for those struggling most.

However, spouses will typically speak for spouses, parents for children, and children for elderly parents. Defer as necessary, and support this person completely in their decision — coming together is crucial.