How to Tell Your Family You Want Cremation

Cremation is more affordable and easier on the environment than traditional burial options like mausoleums or casket burials in a cemetery. That’s why more people are choosing cremation services in Affton, MO, as a final resting option.

However, cremation isn’t always straightforward for families and loved ones with different views. If you’re considering cremation for yourself or someone you care about, here is how to tell your family.

The key to deciding when to tell your family about your final wishes is to discuss it as early as you can, preferably when you’re healthy and well. If you don’t tell your family about your end-of-life wishes now, it can be much harder to do so when it’s an emergency.

If you are in the hospital, dealing with a terminal illness, or nearing the end of life, it’s sensible to be open and honest with your family about your final wishes.

Most importantly, all parties must be comfortable with your decision. If you try to force the decision on your family, it’s unlikely that anyone will be happy with the outcome.

Before you tell your family about your decision to have a cremation, you should have a solid idea of how you want to be remembered. You and your loved ones deserve to know what to expect and how to prepare for your final wishes.

Once you’re ready to tell your family, there are a few steps you can take to make the process go smoothly:

Start the conversation early. The sooner you talk to your loved ones about your final wishes, the less stressful it will be for everyone. But you don’t have to tell everyone all at once. You can share the news with each family member to tailor your delivery to each personality.

Make sure everyone knows the facts. Your family might have misconceptions about how cremation works and how to handle the remains, so take the time to explain everything.

Ask your family what they want. If you’re trying to decide what to do with your remains, it’s wise to ask your family what they want to happen with them. Involving them in the planning can make it easier on them and help them feel relevant to your decision.

Be prepared for questions. Some family members might ask why you want one and many other concerns. Be open to answering any questions they may have.

Be sensitive to your family’s feelings. It can be an uncomfortable topic for some people, so be respectful of their feelings.

We know this is not an easy conversation, but if it’s going to happen, you can get more out of it by pre-planning the cremation.

That way, alongside informing them of your preference, you can plan the funeral with your family and free them from guessing your wishes after you pass.

Call us to pre-plan a cremation service in Affton, MO. Our experts are available 24/7 to guide you through the process.