The 411 On Direct Cremations

21 November 2018
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The loss of a loved one is not meant to be easy. However, with proper understanding and planning, putting your deceased loved one to rest can be less physically, emotionally, and financially stressful for you and other family members left behind. Today, more and more people are choosing cremation for their deceased loved ones because of its ease and affordability. As a matter of fact, choosing cremation over a traditional burial can save thousands of dollars. Of course, there are different cremation options available, and each option can be customized according to your needs and your deceased loved one's wishes. This guide will help you understand direct cremation and if it is something suited to your and the deceased's needs.

The Direct Cremation Process

Understanding the direct cremation process will help you determine if it is the right solution for your deceased loved one.

While it is also referred to as an immediate cremation, a direct cremation does not actually occur immediately after death. Depending on your specific state, you may be required to wait 24 to 48 hours.

Because there is no need for a traditional funeral, viewing/visitation, embalming, or casket, a direct cremation is also called a basic cremation.

Once the mandatory waiting period is complete, your loved one's body will be transported to the crematorium.

Embalming is not required and the purchase of a casket is not mandatory since the cremation specialist will place the body in a cardboard box specifically designed for the cremation. It is important to note that if your loved one had a pacemaker, it will need to be removed before the cremation.

The body is cremated, which can take a few hours. Once complete, the ashes remaining from your loved one will be placed in a box or an urn that you provide. These remains are usually ready for you in a few days.

Benefits of a Direct Cremation

Again, all cremations are more affordable than traditional burials, but a direct cremation is the most inexpensive option of all.

Not only are you saving money on a casket and burial plot/vault, but a direct cremation reduces costs even further because there is no need for embalming or actual funeral service.

The affordability is the main benefit of a direct cremation, but there are other benefits of this type of service.

Even though there is a mandatory waiting period to cremate a person after death, many people prefer the efficiency of a direct cremation. This efficiency is very helpful if you have other family members who are ill, disabled, elderly, or living far away. It is also helpful for those who want and need closure quickly.

Another benefit that may actually surprise you is that direct cremations are a more eco-friendly option, especially when compared to a traditional service and burial.

Over time, the fluid used in embalming will seep into the ground as the body decays. This fluid contains chemicals that affect the soil and any nearby water sources.

Also, caskets and burial vaults break down over time, affecting the nature and wildlife. Since there is no embalming, casket, or burial plot necessary, the direct cremation is safer for the environment.

Finally, a direct cremation allows you to customize your loved one's final needs according to your and other family member's schedules. A memorial service is not planned at the time of the cremation, but it can be planned for a time after the cremation.

Many people choose to plan a memorial once they have the cremated remains in hand. You can choose to plan this memorial at a location where you would like to spread the ashes of your loved one or have a small gathering at your home so you can have some closure.

A direct cremation is not for everyone, but it can be a beneficial option for many people. This guide will help you understand the process and benefits. Get in touch with a company such as Glickler Funeral Home & Cremation Service for more information.