When you start planning your loved one’s funeral, you’ll need to decide between a burial and a cremation. However, if you’ve settled on the latter, you’ll also have to choose between a traditional and a direct cremation. If you’re planning a funeral, here’s what you should know. 

Traditional Cremation

When you opt for traditional cremation, your loved one’s body will be picked up from the location of their passing and transported to the funeral home. There, the funeral director will oversee a number of preservation treatments so that the body can be displayed at the viewing or wake.

For example, the body must be embalmed to slow the decomposition process, as well as dressed. Once these aspects are over, the body is transported to the crematory, and the ashes will be given to the family. You may also need a witness to monitor the cremation process to ensure the identity of the ashes.

Direct Cremation

A direct cremation is a more simplified version of the traditional option. The body won’t be taken to the funeral home, dressed, and viewed. Instead, it’s brought from the morgue or hospital straight to the crematorium. However, if the crematory isn’t available right away, the body may be taken to the funeral home for holding.

If your loved one requested cremation specifically to avoid the embalming process, the direct option is ideal. Additionally, direct cremations give you more time to plan a fitting memorial for your loved one. 

If you’re interested in a traditional or direct cremation for your loved one, reach out to Porto Funeral Homes in New Haven County, CT. They have over 75 years of experience helping families grieve by arranging cremations, burials, memorials, and personalized tributes. They can also help you with the financial aspects, including working with your insurance. To learn more about their services, visit the website. Call their East Haven location at (203) 467-3000 and the West Haven office at (203) 934-5000.