Funeral Options During the Pandemic
Your local funeral home is committed to helping families honor their loved ones in meaningful ways, while ensuring the safety of family and friends. Currently, most gathering restrictions have been lifted, enabling families to hold services that include an unlimited number of guests. Given the somewhat unpredictable nature of the pandemic, however, there could be areas of high incidence that will need to or want to follow social distancing guidelines.
If you’re unable to hold a funeral for your loved one, or if attendance is limited to immediate family, you do have options that can be explored with your funeral director.
- Have a private viewing for only immediate family and/or close friends.
- Have a private service with a public memorial at a later date. Speak with your funeral director about your options regarding casket burial or cremation if you choose this option.
- Have a private viewing for only immediate family and/or close friends and have a memorial service at a later date.
- Ask your funeral director if they have the ability to webcast the funeral so others can view from home.
If you are able to have a funeral, even if it’s on a smaller scale, note that your funeral director may need to follow very specific guidance regarding the number of attendees and social distancing as required by the local, state and/or federal government. While it may be difficult to accept these limitations, know that your funeral director is working hard to ensure your safety, the safety of any guests and the safety of the funeral home staff while still providing family and friends with the opportunity to say goodbye. These guidelines may include:
Social Distancing
Social distancing guidelines may apply, regardless of the setting or circumstances. As such, seating for a service will be adjusted accordingly so guests are a safe distance from each other. Also, keep in mind that guests will likely be hesitant to hug each other or the family of the deceased. While it’s often our natural instinct to offer condolences through physical interaction, it’s important to be respectful of guests’ decision if they choose not to do so. Remember, it’s for the safety of everyone in attendance.