Deciding between cremation and burial

The decision to be buried or cremated is a personal decision. This decision is not always an easy one. Sometimes religious beliefs affect the decision of what to do after death. Other times it is a matter of money that can determine if someone is buried or cremated. Those who have specific wishes need to make their decisions known by letting loved ones know what they want in the event of their death.

Money

If finances are a concern, the option to be cremated is the more cost effective option of the two. Cremation does not have the added costs of visitation, wakes and funeral services. It also costs less money because it takes up less land space.

Reduction in remains

With cremation, the remains are reduced within a matter of hours. A traditional burial can take many years for the body to slowly decompose naturally. Having the remains decompose in the land is a concern for some naturalists who believe this process can contaminate the land. Others believe cremation hurries along the natural process of decomposition in an unnatural way.

Memorialization

With a traditional burial, a cemetery plot and headstone is about the only option. Being entombed in a family mausoleum is another traditional burial option. With cremation, the family has many more memorial options available. Cremated remains can be displayed on a shelf, scattered, put in a columbarium or entombed in a crypt. Those are just a few of the many options available.

Services

Though there is no body to place in a casket after cremation Albany, the family should still have a service for their loved one. The services between a traditional funeral and a cremation may be different, they serve the same purpose. They offer time for the family to mourn their loss and celebrate the life of their lost loved one. If desired before cremation, a service with the body in a casket is available for families to have one last moment with their loved one.

Knowing the differences between being cremated and being buried will help make the final decision on what someone wants. In addition to personal and religious beliefs, there are many factors that may help determine which method is the best option. Making the decision before dying will save the family from wondering what the loved one’s wishes are.