Burial and cremation each respect to the body of a deceased person and lay them to rest with honor. But the decision over whether to be buried or cremated is an extremely personal one that’s influenced by a number of factors. To help you identify the best option for your situation, a few of these factors are discussed in more detail below.

Location

Some people have very specific ideas about where they want to be buried or where they want their ashes scattered. Both buried and cremated remains can be interred in a traditional cemetery. If you want to have a physical location where loved ones can visit, either burial or cremation are viable options. But in some cases, it’s important to the deceased or to their loved ones to spread ashes in a meaningful location or to retain some of the ashes in an urn. In these instances, cremation is the only choice.

Religious Beliefs

Many people choose burial or cremation based on their faith. Christian denominations vary greatly on this subject, with some groups like Baptists and the Orthodox Catholic Church that forbid cremation, and others, like Methodists and Lutherans, who permit it. Judaism historically does not allow cremation, but many reform branches readily accept it today. Many Eastern religions, like Hinduism, require individuals to be cremated. Think of what is customary within your religion or spiritual belief system when deciding between burial or cremation.

Environmental Impact

Each method comes with environmental concerns. Some feel the process of cremation emits harmful toxins into the air, while others believe that the chemicals used to embalm a body and the lack of biodegradation of caskets and vaults are more environmentally-damaging. If ecological impact is an issue for you, there are green options for each. Some options include biodegradable wood or wicker caskets, and urns that are designed to be buried with tree saplings. 

In the end, do what feels right for you and your loved ones. Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals is here to help. Since 1976, they have provided funeral services, burials, and cremations for Rowan, Menifee, Fleming, Lewis, Carter, Montgomery, Morgan, and Bath counties in Kentucky. They will guide you through every step of the funeral planning or preplanning process. Call (606) 784-6491 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to learn more about their services.