Cremation
The word cremation comes from the Latin word , cremo which means “to burn” - particularly the dead. It is believed that this practise dates back to 3000 BC. Seniors have questions about burial rites and hopefully this article might make the reader a bit more knowledgeable. Cremation has increased to over 40% of all burials in North America compared to full body burials. It is less expensive and it affords scattered families the ability to plan a memorial service where everyone can attend. The trend to have lavish funerals with costly coffins and mountains of flowers is gradually being replaced with this simplified service that is affordable and yet dignified.
(a) Choose a funeral director you are comfortable with. Remember they are professionals and will guide you through the procedure with sensitivity and dignity. Ask friends or your family physician to help find someone (b) Be clear about the cost of the funeral. Is it affordable for the estate or the family? Burial services need not be expensive to leave the bereaved with loving memories. A pottery or wood urn for the remains may be made by a friend or family member. Multiple urns may also be a comforting option for families who live globally apart. It is not unusual to separate the ashes.
(c) Know where the disposal of the ashes is to take place. Check that regulations in your area permit the scattering of ashes, or you may have a gravesite. Ashes may be preserved in a columbarium, a small vault in a wall, often with space for two or a whole family. There are special gardens in cemeteries or church yards where remains can be scattered and a memorial marker may be placed. They may be personalized with a rose plant or a tree. (d) It is wise to check if specific instructions were left by the deceased for the disposal of their remains. A golfer may wish to have his or her remains scattered on their favorite golf course. Some people desire to be scattered at sea or childhood haunts. The final decision should be yours and the families. 
(e) Your funeral provider is available to answer your questions about anything you would like to know. Remember the service is important to the bereaved and the final result is the provision of memories to the family. The amount of formality is up to you. There is little difference between a traditional burial and cremation; in fact there are more options when cremation is chosen. Whatever your decision, creating a memorial filled with dignity and the celebration of the loved one, will serve to provide lasting memories to family and friends. There is something refreshing about a funeral service that includes family planning. Certainly, cremation is dignified and brings simplicity and closure to a life lived.
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Families should be in agreement as it does pose a problem for some traditional religions and family members. Listed are a few guidelines that may prove helpful:
