Sheilla Ysug Lee
Yes, cremation has become a growing trend in funeral and burial services. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), in 2020, the cremation rate in the United States reached a record high of 54.8%, which is a significant increase from the 2005 rate of 34.6%. In fact, the NFDA predicts that the cremation rate will continue to rise, reaching 65% by 2035.
Several factors have contributed to this trend, including:
- Cost: Cremation is often less expensive than traditional burial services, making it more accessible to people with limited budgets.
- Environmental concerns: Some people choose cremation as a more environmentally friendly option, as it requires less land and resources than traditional burial.
- Flexibility: Cremation allows for more flexibility in terms of memorialization and the handling of remains. Families can choose to scatter, keep, or bury the ashes, or use them in various ways, such as in a decorative urn or as part of a memorial garden.
- Changing attitudes: Some people may choose cremation because they prefer the concept of returning to nature, or because they see it as a more modern and contemporary approach to bereavement.
- Convenience: Cremation can be a convenient option for families living in urban areas or those who do not have a traditional burial plot.
Some of the trends in cremation include:
- Creative memorialization: As cremation becomes more popular, people are looking for unique and creative ways to memorialize their loved ones. This includes personalized urns, scattering, and other commemorative items.
- Green cremation: Some crematories are now using more environmentally friendly processes, such as using biofuels or recyclable materials.
- Home funeral movement: Some families are choosing to care for their loved ones at home, rather than relying on funeral homes or crematories.
- Online memorials: Many funeral homes and cemeteries are creating online memorials for families to honor their loved ones, which can include photographs, stories, and other tributes.
Overall, cremation has become a popular option for many people, offering a range of benefits and flexibility in terms of memorialization and burial.
