According to the Neptune Society, more than 50% of funerals will include cremation by the end of 2018. That is a huge increase over the 4% of the 1960’s. There are several reasons for the trend. Funerals in Bethlehem PA often include cremation because that simplifies planning. Cremation is an affordable choice and it helps to conserve and protect natural resources.
Families Now Live Farther From One Another
Cremation is better suited to a modern, mobile society. Years ago it was common for several generations to live under a single roof. When death occurred, everyone was present. Today family members and friends are often scattered around the globe. It can take time to gather everyone together for a memorial and not even embalming can preserve bodies indefinitely. As a result, many families now arrange for cremation and Funerals in Bethlehem PA are then held at their convenience. It is easier and less expensive to ship cremains than bodies. There is also less red tape involved in shipping ashes, especially if death occurs outside of the U.S.
Environmental Worries Are Spurring Cremation Requests
Many people now choose cremation in order to preserve natural resources. They do not want to use land for a burial plot. Some also have concerns about placing an embalmed body, casket and grave liner in the ground. They worry, and with good reason, that decomposition and time will cause various elements to break down and seep into the soil or even water supplies.
Cremation Fits Into Most Budgets
One of the most popular and practical reasons for the rise in cremation requests is cost. A basic funeral that includes embalming, visitation and burial in a casket can run $10,000 or more. In comparison, it is possible to arrange direct cremation for under $1,000. Although families can add options like upgraded urns or keepsake jewelry, many simply pick up cremains and scatter them during personalized ceremonies designed to honor lost lives.
In the last few decades there has been a sharp rise in the number of cremations, primarily because they are more affordable than traditional funerals. Families also opt for cremation in order to simplify funeral planning and because they want to protect natural resources.
