Historically, funerals have often included similar elements such as a somber service in a church, a burial plot and a casket. Many people today are choosing to deviate from the standard by customizing their funerals to fit their preferences.
There are many reasons you might consider an alternative funeral, such as to cut costs or be more environmentally friendly. A funeral is not a one-size-fits-all event. It should complement the unique personality and life of the deceased individual.
Consider combining one or more of the following alternative funeral options that speak to you.
Green Burial
Green burials are gaining popularity as a way to benefit the environment and “return to the earth” upon death. Green burials forgo the use of embalming chemicals, vaults and standard caskets to limit waste and protect the local ecosystem. When it comes to green burials, you have options. You can choose to be cremated, wrapped in a biodegradable shroud or buried in a green cemetery. This process tends to cost less than a traditional burial because it requires fewer materials.
Direct Cremation
For those concerned about funeral expenses, direct cremation is typically the most economical option. Direct cremation means the body is cremated directly after death without any viewing, visitation or wake beforehand. The most expensive elements of burial – the casket, service, transportation and embalming – are not needed, leaving you with a no-frills alternative funeral option. Once the cremation is complete, you can keep the ashes in an urn or scatter them somewhere meaningful and perhaps have a scattering ceremony as permitted by local law.
Humanist Funeral
A humanist funeral is a personal yet non-religious celebration of an individual’s life and relationships. The ceremony can be led by a family member, friend or humanist celebrant and includes familiar elements such as music, readings from loved ones and tributes. It can be held outdoors, at a crematorium, or at another venue of choice. Due to the rising number of individuals who do not identify with any religion, alternative funerals like the humanist funeral are becoming increasingly popular as a meaningful way to honor a loved one.
DIY Funeral
A DIY funeral is simply a funeral that is arranged by the family without a funeral director. Some choose this method to reduce costs, while others may relish the responsibility of selecting these final personal touches for a loved one. Keep in mind that making arrangements, inviting guests, organizing paperwork and taking care of other funeral planning responsibilities will be time-consuming for your loved ones. If you decide you wish your family to pursue a DIY funeral, it may be a courtesy to prepare your loved ones for the added stress during this time of grieving.
Share a Meal and Memories
No rule says funerals have to be a formal affair. Your family and friends can reserve a room or table at a restaurant to enjoy your favorite cuisine together, making toasts and telling stories in honor of your life.
Hold an Open House
An open house memorial facilitates a more casual and comfortable environment for remembering the deceased. Your loved ones can designate an afternoon or evening in advance during which guests can stop by. Displaying photographs and other memorabilia is a great way for your loved ones to recognize memories. Friends and family can write down additional memories and condolences in a guest book.
Plan an Outing
A send-off typically takes place in a funeral home, but it doesn’t have to. Family and friends can arrange a place of significance, such as a favorite park or beach, and hold a picnic, barbeque or memorial service. This outing can be an intimate activity or a larger gathering depending on your preference. If you choose cremation, your loved ones can use this special occasion to scatter remains.
Another option is to organize a group to participate in a treasured pastime of yours. Whether that involves watching football, seeing live music, volunteering at a nonprofit or attending trivia night, engaging in a favorite hobby is a wonderful way to honor the deceased.
Final Expense Insurance for Seniors
If you’re concerned about funeral costs, you may benefit from final expense insurance, a whole life insurance policy that offers a death payout to help cover end-of-life expenses. The payout can range anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 and can be used on things such as medical bills and funeral expenses. Any leftover money goes to your dependents to use at their discretion.
A final expense life insurance policy through Americo Senior Life is affordable, requires no medical exam, and does not expire. Ease your mind from worrying over final expenses and get an online quote today.