Cremation vs. Traditional Burial and What You Need to Know

If a loved one has passed away without leaving any information about what they would like to be done with their body, this responsibility can fall on those closes to the deceased. For someone who is in that position, deciding on options like cremation or traditional burial can be stressful. How do you know which choice is the right one for your loved one? There are a number of things that Ameila, VA funeral home and cremations providers urge you to consider.

The first thing to consider is if your loved one belonged to any denomination of religion that has special requirements for burial or cremation. Most religions these days allow for both, but the more orthodox branches can require traditional burial. Be sure to speak with a religious leader to find out more about how to proceed from them. Funeral homes have contacts with these leaders and will be able to help you.

Budget is another vital thing to keep in mind. Traditional burials tend to cost much more than direct cremation, so if you are limited in funds, cremation is probably the best choice. Because cremation does not require the purchase of a casket or of a cemetery plot, it can be dramatically less expensive. If you choose options like bio-cremation, the price can hike up because it is not as common an option as direct cremation, but it will usually still be more affordable than a traditional burial.

To make the best decision, you also need to keep in mind the kind of environmental strain that each option places on the planet. This is especially important if your loved one was concerned about their carbon footprint. As long as there is no embalming fluid or metal parts in the casket that you choose, a burial can be ecofriendly. Cremation that is done using water, called bio-cremation, puts very little strain on the environment and can be a great option, as well. Direct cremation does release some carbon into the air, but it is still a good option.

The choice you make between traditional burial and cremation will also impact cemetery options. Not all cemeteries provide spaces for cremated remains. If this is something that you and your family want for your loved one, then be sure to search for the right cemetery that can accommodate your needs.

Before looking for funeral homes and cremations in Ameila, VA, the first thing you need to do is decide on your budget and the desires of the person who died. All of this will help you make the right choice. If you have any questions or worries, speaking with a funeral home director or crematorium director can be a great idea. They can help you in this difficult process. Get started by contacting a company like Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service, 6500 Iron Bridge Rd Richmond, VA 23234. Reach them at (804) 275-7828 to learn about their cremation and burial services.