Cremation vs. Burial…How to Decide Which is Best

Deciding between cremation and traditional burial is a deeply personal question that should not be taken lightly by anyone. There are many questions you need to ask yourself to decide which is best for you or your loved one. Before making a snap decision, think about it with an open mind and consider the following benefits and disadvantages of both options. 

Cremation is More Cost-Effective

The process of preparing a body for traditional burial includes things such as embalming, cosmetic enhancements and dressing the remains to be shown at a visitation or wake. This process is often expensive because it requires extensive work in addition to proper storage and treatment of the remains. Caskets are also a significant investment for those who choose a traditional burial. 

Cremation is a more simple process that does not require embalming. Cremation reduces the remains to ashes within a few hours, making it a far more cost-effective option. Those who choose cremation also have the option to store the ashes in a less-expensive urn or alternative container. 

What does Religion Say? 

Many religions began by banning cremation. Until very recently, Catholics did not condone cremation since it was seen as an admission of disbelief in the resurrection of Christ. In today’s world, the Catholics accept cremation as long as it is due to a personal choice and not due to doubt in the resurrection. Many other religions require the body to be intact during the burial, which means that many religious people favor a traditional burial over cremation. However, with cremation, the ashes can be kept intact in an urn and buried or stored in a mausoleum like a casket. 

Cremation Saves Space

Cremation is most popular in towns and cities where the space for burials is limited. Many families choose to bury multiple urns in a family plot. In an average sized cemetery plot, where maybe two or three caskets would fit, up to five or six urns will take up the same amount of space. This further saves money and helps preserve family traditions.

Alternative Ceremonies

With a traditional burial, there is only one way to honor the body. Embalmed bodies may only be buried in cemeteries or stored in mausoleums. Cremated remains, however, can be stored at the home of a loved one, buried in a cemetery or entombed in a mausoleum, scattered at sea, scattered on land or divided amongst family members. There are more options and unique ways to store the remains with cremation. 

How to Decide Which is Best?

When deciding which method is best for you, consider all the options. Are you looking to save money? Is faith an important aspect of you or your loved one’s life? Are you interested in upholding family customs and traditions? Weighing all the options will help make sure you make the right decision.

For more information on cremation and help to decide if it is right for you or your loved one, call 203-348-0443 and speak with the experienced cremation experts at Nutmeg State Cremation Society in Stamford, CT today.