Visitations, in these instances, are not possible. Others have the full funeral first and the cremation process done later. In those cases, yes, visitation is possible.

The answer to this question is two-fold: yes and no. While the cremation service in Chicago, IL process is always the same, the timing of the process varies. Some people go with direct cremation and have their loved one cremated soon after their death without any services beforehand. Visitations, in these instances, are not possible. Others have the full funeral first and the cremation process done later. In those cases, yes, visitation is possible.

Are visitations absolutely necessary? No, not really, but they are a choice that your family has in the final service process. They are needed if you feel they are needed. Visitations often give people a sense of closure and they can allow family members a chance to say a final goodbye. However, they also cost more than a direct cremation and they are sometimes hard to handle timing-wise and logistically. It’s hard to know which direction to go when you are planning services for a loved one. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

Do We Have The Time?

Visitations happen relatively quickly because, even with embalming, there’s a time limit on your loved one’s body. If you can arrange things quickly, gather your family, and have the visitation, then it’s okay to move forward. If it’s going to take your family too long to gather, you can’t bring yourself to make arrangements right away, or other time constraints get in the way, there’s nothing wrong with skipping it, getting direct cremation, and having a service later.

Do We Have The Funds?

Cremation is the least expensive final disposition method, but it increases quite a bit when you add a visitation to the mix. There will have to be a casket (even if it’s rented) and your loved one will likely have to be embalmed (yet another cost) and so on. If your family doesn’t have the funds for the visitation process, direct cremation is a better answer.

Do We Want To See Our Loved One That Way?

Some people take comfort in seeing their loved one in a casket because it’s a way to say goodbye and get closure. For others, it’s downright hard and overwhelming. If you feel like it would be too hard to see your loved one’s remains in that manner, direct cremation and no visitation is a better way to go for you.

When you are looking into options for cremation service in Chicago, IL, the professionals at Chicagoland Cremation Options can give you advice on direct cremation and how that option can be advantageous to you. Of course, we will never pressure you into anything and you get to make every decision for your loved one yourself. Call with any questions you have, and our experts will treat you in a compassionate manner, supporting any decisions you make. You can reach us at (773) 631-0018  and you can also visit our facilities for a tour and to speak in person at 9329 Byron St, Schiller Park, IL 60176.