The percentage of cremations in the United States is at an all-time high. More than half of all final services now involve cremation and the trend is expected to continue, perhaps reaching 60% by 2023. It is a trend that started upward in the 1960s. What are the reasons for the increase in cremations in the last few decades? Why are more individuals requesting cremation when pre-planning on their own and why are more families deciding on it for a loved one?
It Can Be More Cost-Effective
One of the biggest reasons for the growth in popularity in cremations is that they are generally more cost-effective. It many instances, the cost savings can be significant. With a cremation, there is frequently no need for a burial plot, casket, grave opening and closing or cement vault. Of course, there is the cost of the cremation and the costs of some type of urn, but those costs are comparatively low.
Accepted by More Religions
Even just a generation ago, many of the world’s religions discouraged cremation. Today, any stigma associated with cremation has largely disappeared. Families, along with their churches and clergy have embraced cremation. This has removed a barrier for some families in being comfortable with the choice.
Considered More Green Than Traditional Burial
Cremation is largely considered more environmentally-friendly than a traditional burial. It minimizes transportation of large, heavy cement vaults and caskets. It doesn’t use much green space and chemicals used for body preservation are not being entered into the ground.
Ashes are Easier to Store and Transport
There are more choices than ever when it comes to urns for storing ashes. These urns can be attractive and personalized. They are easy to store or display. Ashes are also easy to transport should a death occur out of state or out of the country. Once a family has the ashes they can take them with them if they move.
Services Can be Easier to Plan
Once a body is cremated, the urgency in staging final services is relieved. This makes it easier to plan services and can give the family more time. This can be very valuable in stretches of extremely poor weather or when there is travel involved for multiple family members.
Contact the Cremation Society of Greater Cincinnati
At the Cremation Society of Greater Cincinnati, part of our mission is to create a greater understanding of the cremation process and to answer the questions of those who have them. We can assist individuals in pre-planning a cremation and help families with a current need through the process. We will be straight-forward and honest with our answers to help individuals and families make the best choice for them. If you are considering pre-planning your cremation or if you simply have questions, please feel free to contact us. We would be honored to serve you and your family.
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