While cremation services have been performed for hundreds of years, it is only recently that the rate of cremation surpassed that of traditional graveside burial. In fact, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) predicts that nearly 80% of all Americans will opt to be cremated in 20 years.

Are you curious as to why so many people have been opting for cremation services in Park Ridge, Illinois when considering the final resting place for themselves or a loved one? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’re going to review the four main reasons why people are now opting for cremation services rather than a traditional burial.

One of the main reasons why many residents of Park Ridge prefer cremation is that it’s more economical.

There is a long list of funeral expenses that can easily be avoided with cremation services. First and foremost, reducing the body to ash eliminates the need for a traditional casket. You also won’t need to buy a burial plot or pay the fees for grave opening and closing. Plus, there is no need to embalm the body, which is a service that can cost hundreds of dollars.

Traditional casket, burial plot, grave opening and closing, and embalming: all of these costs are part of a traditional funeral that can be avoided when you decide on a cremation service.

A traditional burial has to be performed within a tight timeframe right after death to ensure a timely handling of the body. On the other hand, cremation services offer more flexibility in terms of the timeframe, especially if distant relatives and friends are planning on traveling to attend the service.

It is possible to proceed with the cremation and schedule a memorial service for a later date, which could be weeks or even months later.

Cremation services also offer a variety of options when it comes to disposing of the remains. After the cremation service, the ashes may be buried or entombed. Ashes may also be scattered in a place of special significance to the deceased, or they can be kept in a loved one's home — perhaps on a shelf or a mantle.

Another reason for choosing cremation is that it’s a more environmentally friendly funeral option.

With the focus on doing what is right for the environment being spread throughout modern society, people are more interested than ever in trying to lessen their ecological footprint. Some people go green by not using up land for graves, and by not having to use the chemicals that are used in embalming. They also consider cremation to be a greener option because there are fewer trees cut down to make the casket.

Choosing how a loved one's remains will be handled is a deeply personal decision. It’s one that is often based on faith, family tradition, and personal beliefs. At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong choice — it all comes down to what you are most comfortable with.

Are you looking for guidance when making important decisions about a loved one's funeral? That's where Cooney Funeral Home would like to help. For three generations and over 80 years, we have served families in our communities with the highest degree of care and comfort.

If you have any questions regarding cremation services in Park Ridge, Illinois, please call us at (847) 685-1002 with any questions. You can also contact us online or visit our funeral home in Park Ridge in person.