As you make decisions related to your funeral arrangements, one important choice has to do with your wishes for your remains. More than half of Americans are choosing to be cremated for a variety of reasons. If you’re thinking about your final arrangements and aren’t sure what you want to do, here are some reasons to choose cremation.

Why You Should Consider Cremation 

1. Flexible Funeral Arrangements

Choosing cremation over a traditional burial allows more flexibility in terms of funeral arrangements. Traditional burials typically need to take place within 10 days of passing, which can be challenging, especially if there was no plan for final arrangements. Opting for cremation allows loved ones more time to plan a memorial service and decide how to handle the remains.

Some people opt to keep their loved ones’ ashes, for example, while others scatter the remains in a beloved location. Cremation also allows for the remains to be split among multiple people and places according to the deceased’s wishes. 

2. The Environment

People are opting for cremation as a more environmentally-friendly alternative to burial. Not only does cremation eliminate the need for a burial plot, but it also doesn’t require the use of harsh chemicals for embalming.

Even if your funeral arrangements call for the burial of the urn containing your ashes, it requires less land space than a casket. Some people even opt to plant their ashes with a memorial tree, giving something back to the environment. 

3. Cost 

In general, cremation is less expensive than burial. The average funeral costs about $7,600, including the casket, burial plot, marker, and other costs. Direct cremation (which doesn’t include any type of memorial service) costs, on average, about $1,000. For those looking to save money on their final arrangements, cremation is an option worth looking at.

Making decisions for your final arrangements can be challenging and emotional. At Schlientz & Moore Funeral Home, we work with families to provide personalized funeral arrangements, memorials, and cremations that celebrate life. We’ve worked with families throughout the Dayton, OH, area since 1921, building a reputation for compassionate, honest, and fair service. Call us at (937) 253-1441 or visit our website for more information.