Death is an inevitable part of life. When it comes to saying goodbye to a loved one who has passed away, there are typically two options for disposition: burial or cremation. Both options come with their considerations and are deeply personal choices that require careful consideration. Understanding Burial and Cremation Options is an important step in making the right decision for your family and loved ones.
Burial Services
Burial services typically involve the interment of the deceased in a cemetery or memorial park. In Australia, various burial options are available, including traditional in-ground burials, above-ground burials in mausoleums or crypts, and natural or green burials.
Traditional In-Ground Burials
This is Australia’s most common type of burial. It involves placing the deceased in a casket or coffin and interring it in the ground. The grave is then marked with a headstone or memorial plaque.
Above-Ground Burials
Mausoleums and crypts are above-ground burial options that allow families to visit their loved ones in a protected environment. Mausoleums are typically larger structures that can hold multiple caskets, while crypts are smaller and designed to hold a single casket.
Natural or Green Burials
Natural or green burials are burial services that are more eco-friendly and involve burying the deceased in a biodegradable casket or shroud. This allows the body to decompose naturally and return to the earth. Natural burial sites are often located in natural or conservation areas.
Most Funeral directors, such as Seaside Funerals, offer a range of burial services to suit the needs of each family. Their burial packages include options for religious and non-religious ceremonies and can cater to specific cultural requirements.
Cremation Services
Cremation Services
Involve high temperatures to reduce the body to ash. The ashes are then typically placed in an urn or scattered at a location of the family’s choosing. Cremation services have become increasingly popular in Australia over the past few decades, accounting for around 70% of all dispositions.
Direct Cremation
Direct cremation is the most basic form of cremation and involves the cremation of the deceased without any funeral or memorial service. The ashes are then typically returned to the family.
Cremation with Service
Cremation with service involves a funeral or memorial service before cremation. This allows family and friends to say goodbye to their loved ones and provides closure.
Cremation with Interment
Cremation with interment involves the burial of the cremated remains in a cemetery or memorial park. This option is often chosen when families wish to have a permanent memorial site.
There are also funeral directors who offer these cremation services, such as the seaside Funerals; they also provide a range of urns, keepsakes, and memorial jewellery, which can help you keep your loved one close to your heart after they have passed away.
Bottom Line
Choosing between burial and cremation services is a deeply personal decision that should be based on the wishes of the deceased and the family’s preferences. Whatever option is chosen, working with a trusted funeral home or cremation provider is essential to ensure the process is carried out with care and respect.