Making your final arrangements involves many decisions. One major choice to make is between cremation and burial. The cremation rate in the United States was about 53% in 2018, and by 2023, the rate is expected to be almost 60%. Knowing the following benefits may help you decide whether this option is right for you.

3 Benefits of Choosing Cremation

1. Eliminates the Need to Rush  

Direct cremation eliminates the traditional viewing, wake, funeral, and burial services that usually occur within days after death. The body is not embalmed because it can be cremated within hours after the individual passes away.

Loved ones have time to grieve and plan a memorial service or celebration of life weeks later, instead of rushing the process because the body must be buried.  

2. Remains Can Travel With Loved Ones

If family members move out of town, they do not have to leave buried remains behind. Typically after cremation, ashes are stored in urns that are easy to transport.

Your loved ones may keep them at home or another location. If you make a request as part of  your final arrangements, a loved one can scatter the ashes in a place that’s special to you, such as in a lake, ocean, or from a mountain top.

3. Conserve Natural Resources

If you are concerned about protecting the earth’s natural resources, cremation provides a way to address environmental concerns. When compared to burials, cremations use much less space.

There is no need for a burial plot or a large coffin, which conserves land and woods for alternative uses. Much smaller than coffins, cremation urns are available in a variety of styles and materials.    

Professional and compassionate, the team at Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home in Rochester, NY, provides area residents with top-quality cremation and funeral services. The members of this family-owned business have more than 40 years of experience putting together customized memorial services to honor a loved one’s passing. Visit their website to learn more about advance planning and call (585) 426-7830 to schedule an appointment to discuss your wishes.