The loss of a loved one is never easy, but planning ahead can help ease the process. Before someone passes, it’s beneficial to discuss funeral arrangements to know what their final wishes are for their service and resting place. Read on to learn three things to consider when making funeral arrangements.
Type of Service
One of the first things to consider when making funeral arrangements is the type of service your loved one wants. There are several different types of services and burials that you will want to be aware of so you can choose the one that best suits you and your loved ones. If your loved one went through hospice care, you should consult with the caregiver on any arrangements your loved one requested.
Of course, if you are planning your own funeral, you can make whatever choices you desire. Still, if you are planning arrangements for a loved one, it’s good to check their will and legal documents for potential instructions regarding their final wishes. Some examples of service types include a traditional full-service funeral, a direct burial, a cremation, or a green burial.
Funeral Provider
The necessity of a funeral provider is the next thing to keep in mind when arranging a funeral. Once you decide what type of service you would like to have, it’s time to choose a funeral provider for the service. Some states, but not all, require that you have a funeral provider to have a funeral. It’s essential that you choose a provider you trust and feel will respect your wishes in this difficult time of loss.
Seeking connections in times of grief is important, and funerals are a way for people to do that. Therefore, you also want to be able to connect with your funeral provider to allow them to understand your wants and needs for a funeral. If your loved one lived in a retirement community, assisted living, or nursing home, talk to their staff and request a list of nearby funeral homes they trust.
Financial Arrangements
The third thing to consider when planning a funeral is making financial arrangements. Funerals can get rather expensive, depending on the services that you choose. Therefore, it’s essential that you make the appropriate financial arrangements to ensure that you can cover the funeral’s costs. If you are planning your own funeral, you can set aside dedicated finances so that the responsibility doesn’t fall to your family members after your death. However, if you are planning a loved one’s funeral, you can split up costs among family and friends or choose a plan to pay for the services.
Now that you’re aware of the three things to consider when planning a funeral, you can have peace of mind as you lay your loved one to rest. Of course, planning in advance is always helpful. Having a plan in place means that you are ready for anything and don’t have to worry about it when you are in the throes of grief.