As you make funeral arrangements for a deceased loved one, you may need to choose between a traditional burial and cremation. The latter has become more popular in recent years for a variety of religious, economic, and environmental reasons. Here's what you need to know to make a decision.

What Is Cremation?

Cremation is an alternative to traditional burials. The remains of the deceased are burned in a specialized furnace, sometimes with a casket as well. The ashes are then collected and returned to the family. The cremated remains may be placed in an urn for the family to keep or scatter, or they may be buried or used to memorialize the deceased in other ways.

Why Do People Choose Cremation?

For some people, cremation has a religious significance. For others, the thought of burial is uncomfortable, and cremation feels more suitable. Some families find comfort in having their loved one’s ashes; they may place the urn in their homes or may have jewelry or artwork created from the ashes. Some families scatter the ashes of the deceased in a place that held meaning to them. For others, cremation is a practical choice, as it’s often more cost-effective than traditional burials. It is also environmentally friendly, as cremated remains take up less space in the earth, don’t require wood, and don't contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde-based embalming fluids. 

If you're considering cremation for your loved one, contact Cremation Service of Western New York in Rochester. For almost 30 years, they have provided compassionate service to the Monroe County community, bringing peace of mind and a convenient full-service approach. They also strive to personalize each service to honor the deceased and offer memorial jewelry to help keep your loved one close to your heart. To arrange services for your loved one, call (585) 544-4500 or send them a message online.