Those who are involved with handle arrangements following the passing of a family member or friend may be overwhelmed with the funeral options. It can be an extremely difficult thing to mourn a death while plan this type of event. The choices that one makes regarding this may be based on available budget, ethnic culture, religion, desires outlined by the deceased or other such factors.
Another option available is donation. This involves donating the whole, or parts, of the body to medical science. The entity on the receiving end is usually a medical school or teaching hospital. Sometimes these facilities will cover all costs and then send the remaining ashes back to the family. People who do this do so with the intent to help advance science and medical research.
Cremation and direct cremation might also be done. Direct involves the deceased being taken from his or her place of death directly to the crematory. The memorial services, if any, are done later. Regular cremation is done after viewing ceremonies and a formal funeral. The cost of this service will vary and there are many options available in terms of what to do with the remaining ashes.
Direct burial is a choice that many cultures tend to favor. With this, the body is moved from the place of death to a cemetery where it is buried in a simple container. A memorial service, if desired, is held at a later time. Outside of cremation and donation, this is one of the most inexpensive options available through most funeral homes.
There are several things to consider during the planning process. Always follow the instructions or requests left by the deceased, if any. This is why it is encouraged that individuals plan as much as possible while still alive, so the stress and responsibility is not entirely on friends and family.
Make sure to consider the budget, as the many funeral options can become expensive quickly. Handling and transporting bodies, purchasing caskets, and having cremation services all come at a price. However, you do not have to break the bank in order to lay a loved one to rest. Do thorough research on all the options available to you.
