Dealing with the death of a loved one can be a difficult and emotional time. One of the many decisions that need to be made is when to hold a viewing, a gathering where loved ones can spend time with the deceased prior to burial or cremation. While there are no specific laws dictating when or if a viewing must take place, funeral homes recommend holding a viewing as soon as possible after death.
This article will explore the considerations involved in making this decision, including embalming, transportation of the body, and funeral services.
When it comes to arranging after-death arrangements, timing is a crucial consideration. Holding a viewing allows loved ones to say their final goodbyes and provide closure, but it is important to balance this with the need to handle the body appropriately. The timing of the viewing can also impact the ability of family and friends to attend.
This article will explore the various factors that should be taken into account when scheduling a viewing, including the preservation of the body, transportation logistics, and coordination with other funeral services. By understanding the implications of these factors, families can make informed decisions about when to hold a viewing that best honors the memory of their loved one.
Timing of Viewings
Viewings, which are informal gatherings for loved ones to spend time with the deceased prior to burial or cremation, are typically held within a week of death, but may be delayed for up to two weeks.
Embalming can preserve a body for that amount of time, while refrigeration may prevent decomposition for up to four weeks. However, funeral homes recommend holding a viewing as soon as possible after death, as delaying a viewing can put a financial strain on the family.
Attending a viewing can be a necessary step in the grieving process, allowing loved ones to say goodbye and find closure. While there are no specific laws dictating when or if a viewing must take place, it is important to consider the emotional and financial needs of the family.
Funeral services can be overwhelming and emotionally draining, and delaying a viewing may prolong the grieving process. Additionally, the majority of funeral homes in the US recommend embalming for viewing, as it can help preserve the body and create a more natural appearance for loved ones to remember.
Embalming for Preservation
Embalming is a common method of slowing down the decomposition process and reducing unpleasant odors of the deceased. It involves injecting preservative chemicals into the body’s arterial system while draining the blood. This process helps to preserve the body for up to two weeks, allowing for a viewing to take place.
Embalming is highly recommended by the majority of funeral homes in the US as it allows family and friends to spend more time with their loved one before the burial or cremation. However, embalming also has its disadvantages. It is an invasive process that alters the body’s natural state and can be costly.
It is not required by law, and some families may prefer not to have their loved one undergo the procedure due to personal or religious beliefs. Additionally, embalming does not guarantee that the body will be preserved indefinitely and may not prevent decomposition entirely.
Despite its drawbacks, embalming remains a popular choice for those wishing to have a viewing before the funeral or cremation.
Other Funeral Considerations
When planning a funeral, families may face the challenge of delaying the service due to extenuating circumstances, such as waiting for out-of-town relatives to arrive, with 44% of funerals taking place within one week of the death. However, there are legal requirements that must be followed when it comes to the disposition of a body.
In the US, each state has its own regulations regarding the handling and transportation of human remains. For example, in New Hampshire, embalming is not required by law, but refrigeration is necessary if the body is not cremated or buried within 24 hours of death. Additionally, families may choose to follow cultural traditions, such as holding a wake or other religious ceremonies before the funeral service.
It is also important for families to consider the financial and emotional impact of delaying a funeral service. Funeral homes may charge additional fees for holding a body for an extended period, and the delay can add to the stress of the grieving process. However, it is ultimately up to the family to decide when to hold the service and how to honor their loved one’s memory. Funeral directors can provide guidance and support to help families navigate these difficult decisions.
