Top 4 Trends in Funeral Homes in 2021
As we embark on the year 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic has risen exponentially. This has brought about major changes, in everyday life, and has taken a toll on millions of people, both physically and mentally. The COVID-19 has also shaken the corporate world as well as funeral homes, throughout the United States. Companies have and are still responding to the public health crisis, and are commended for it.
The year 2020 was a pretty tough year. However, people have adjusted, changed, struggled, and, at times, learned to survive in a new reality, in the midst of difficulty. Millions have, unfortunately, passed away. This has significantly impacted the funeral industry, more than any other occupation or niche. The following are the top 4 trends in funeral homes in 2021.
Cremation
Cremation is the most affordable and low-cost option available. Many people are opting for cremation, due to the pandemic. Cremation bypasses body preparation and funeral service options that involve the full-body. Families are able to hold on to their loved-ones remains, until funeral arrangements have been made. After the funeral, some families scatter their loved one’s remains. Other families have even opted to turn their loved-ones ashes into cremation jewelry. This allows them to feel close to their family member who has passed.
Eco-Friendly Funerals
Humans significantly impact the surrounding environment. Therefore, there is a growing sensitivity to preserve our environment even in the funeral industry. For example, eco-friendly woven caskets, recyclable funeral invitations, and environmentally-friendly flowers are now available. Although flowers are available in the environment, many are exposed to significant amounts of chemicals, to speed up their growth, before they are sold to consumers. Eco-friendly flowers are available at the local florist. Another option is to either purchase plants, instead of flowers, or plant a tree. Plants and trees last, for a number of years, and can improve the quality of the air. Trees can be planted, as a way to commemorate a loved one.
Other green products, offered by the funeral industry, include burial shrouds, embalming products, and biodegradable urns. Biodegradable urns decompose naturally, unlike the standard cremation urns. They give back to the environment, by providing nutrients as well as minerals, which helps in preserving the land.
Virtual Funeral Services
Virtual funeral services have significantly increased, because of the COVID 19 pandemic. Many people are uncomfortable being indoors in groups. As a result, many funeral homes are now offering or making a provision, for streaming video services, purely out of necessity. This makes it more convenient, for the entire family and friends, from far and near, to attend the funeral service. It also allows everyone to share stories that celebrate and honor the life of their loved one. Live stream services are often set up using a variety of apps, including Google Hangouts, Google Meets, or Zoom. Free memorial pages are also sometimes offered, as a way to share photos, videos, and memories, before the livestream service is held.
Grief Counseling
The death of a loved one can sometimes be hard to cope with. It can be emotionally and mentally intense and draining. This is why funeral homes now offer grief counseling services, to help families through the grief process. A variety of resources, including pamphlets, books, websites, and in-person support, are available, to meet your personal needs. Grief counseling provides a secure environment and allows you the freedom to express your feelings. Grief counselors will provide the support you need to grieve as well as honor your family member. Healthy strategies will be provided, to help cope with grief and normalize the grieving process.
