As funerals and final services continue to evolve, there is a growing trend that is taking place. That is the choice of having home funerals. Home funerals are pretty much what it sounds like. The care of the body is left to members of the family and friends and viewing is conducted in the home of the deceased.
While some states have strict regulations surrounding home funerals, such is not the case in Ohio and Kentucky. While there are certainly emotional and financial benefits to a home funeral, there are also many aspects a family should consider before deciding to proceed.
Benefits of a Home Funeral
One of the significant benefits of a home funeral is that can ultimately save a family hundreds if not thousands of dollars compared to a traditional funeral home service. Some families may view some of the services provided by a funeral home as unnecessary and a home funeral provides the opportunity to bypass the funeral home.
Home funerals put the family in more control of decisions surrounding final services. Many see it as a more personalized, loving way to say goodbye. The family can take a few days to prepare the body and grieve in familiar surroundings before transporting the body for burial or cremation.
There is a school of thought that home funerals are also more valuable in promoting healing, bonding and in the recognition of the cycle of life. Homes provide a more comfortable, natural place for final services.
While home funerals seem progressive, they are actually a return to the why funerals were conducted in the late 1800’s. Then, most visitations were held in the homes of the deceased. In fact, many homes were built with such “parlor” rooms for such occasions.
Challenges of a Home Funeral
Along with some appealing benefits, home funerals have their share of challenges. The death of a loved is a difficult time for those left behind, and you want to be sure those assisting in preparations are emotionally ready. There is also an amount of education that needs to take place for a home funeral to be handled properly.
There are hygienic and preservation processes that need to be attended to. These include washing the body, diapering it, laying it out and cooling it with gel packs or even ice. Families will have to familiarize themselves with laws regarding the acquisition of a death certificate and in notifying authorities of the death.
There are also the steps necessary to accommodate viewing and visitation in a home. Of course, there will still be decisions regarding a coffin, burial or cremation and the body will need to be removed from the home.
How Fares J. Radel Can Help
Home funerals are yet another way families can take more control of final services, making them more personal. At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we can assist you as much or as little as you choose. We can serve as a consultant to your family in a home funeral, assist with the purchase of a coffin and arrange to perform transportation services for the body. Should you choose, we can help with a traditional burial or cremation arrangements.
We trace our history back to the days when viewings originally took place in homes. Our family has served other families throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area for generations. We would be honored to serve you.
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