What Are The Different Types of Cremation

Cremation services are becoming more widely popular for a loved one. Cremation is more cost-effective and eco-friendly than burial services and is more convenient and flexible in timing. Many people are unaware that there are a few different types of cremation and not just one set in stone. These types include traditional, memorial, and direct. When choosing which type of cremation is the best for you and your loved one, there are many factors to consider. Learn the differences between each type below to help better determine which is right for your loved one and your family. 

Learn below the three types of cremation services and how to honor a loved one today!

Traditional cremation is the most similar to a burial service. A traditional cremation starts with a funeral service, and the cremation process is later followed. Traditional cremations usually have a wake or visitation hours within two to three days of the death of a loved one. These cremation services are more expensive than the other types because the body is present during the funeral, wake, and visitation. When the body of a loved one is present, there are additional costs, including embalming and casket. After the service, the cremation process begins, and families can then gather the cremated remains and spread them or keep them in a box or urn.

A memorial cremation service is exactly like a traditional cremation, with the only difference being that the body is not present at the service. The body is cremated after the death with memorial cremation, and no viewing is involved. This allows families to avoid the cost of embalming and caskets and have more time to get together and set up a memorial service when the family is ready. There is no rush on holding a memoir because the cremated remains are safe in an urn or cremation box until the time is right, whether that's days or weeks later. Once the cremation process is complete, the remains are returned to the family as soon as possible before a memorial so they can spread them or display them after the ceremony is over. 

When it comes to deciding the type of cremation you may want for yourself as a last wish or for choosing for your loved one, there are a couple of things to consider. If money is an important factor, choosing either direct or memorial cremation will allow you to save the costs of embalming a body and having a casket. If you insist on having a funeral or visitation service, choosing a traditional cremation will be your best bet. Another thing to consider is time constraints. If you are waiting for family across the country to come home for a memorial, a traditional cremation service may not be your best option, as the body needs to be embalmed shortly after death. Direct and memorial cremation gives families more time to come together and prepare for a meaningful service or tribute. 

Hamel-Lydon Chapel and Cremation Services of MA proudly offers simple, affordable cremation services to local families. We know this is a challenging time, so we can do whatever we can to provide you with meaningful services with no hidden costs. Learn more about our cremation services, or contact us today to get started.