One of the reasons cremation has grown so much in popularity is that it is more affordable than traditional final services and burial. There are certainly other reasons families choose cremation, but the cost is the most frequent deciding factor. But not all cremation costs are the same. They not only can vary from facility to facility, but costs will also be dependent on choices the family makes throughout the process.
A Brief Look at the Cremation Process
The basic cremation process involves the incineration of the body in a special chamber designed for the process. First, the body must be identified and cremation authorized by a family member who has the authority to do. This frequently involves taking the body to a facility where it is bathed and dressed.
If there will be a public viewing, the body may be embalmed. The body is placed in a wooden or heavy cardboard container and transferred to the cremation chamber. A stainless steel ID tag is included with the body to identify the cremains. Once cremated, any leftover metals from dental fillings, etc. are removed, and once cooled, the ashes and bone fragments are pulverized to a fine sand-like texture. These ashes or cremains are returned to the family in a container of choice.
What Impacts the Costs of Cremation?
While the basic steps in the cremation process are similar, costs can vary from provider to provider. Factors that will impact cremation costs include:
- The level of personal care and professionalism in which the process is conducted.
- Whether the crematory is owned by the cremation provider.
- The location of the cremation provider and distance to the crematory.
- Local regulations regarding cremation.
- Whether a public viewing, visitation, or final services are involved.
- How simple or elaborate the urn or container carrying the cremains is.
What is a Simple Cremation?
Simple cremation is one that bypasses a traditional service or memorial. Instead, the body is cremated shortly after death and is not embalmed. While efficient and cost-effective, the lack of a final service can impact a loved one’s ability to say goodbye and grieve. This is why in spite of the cost benefits many families still decide to at least have some form of memorial service.
Families may choose cremation for environmental reasons because it was the wish of the deceased or for financial reasons. You can still have dignified services associated with cremation, and we can help.
Whether you are pre-planning or in a current need, we invite you to contact us to discuss your options when it comes to cremation. Since we own the only private crematory in the Cincinnati area, you are assured of personal service and care for your loved one.
When you have questions regarding cremation, we invite you to contact us.
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