CHOOSING A FUNERAL HOME

HOMEWARD BOUND

Funeral home operators have become increasingly accommodating.  Many have shed bygone constrictions of established ways.  Instead, they are more apt to absorb and actualize client requests.

When confronted with a need to choose a funeral home, typical habits come into play.  Consumers tend to follow predictable patterns.  Often they target an establishment based on proximity, previous experiences, or reputation. Nowadays, though, there are a number of variables worth considering.  A multitude of expanded factors offers the potential to optimize the funerary experience. 

Have you stayed abreast of the status of your neighborhood funeral home that’s conveniently located down the street?  Is it possible that the original proprietor has sold it to a corporate owner?  If so, operational changes may have occurred without your awareness. 

Beyond ownership, though, many funeral homes around the country have transformed their physical facilities as well as their manner of services and inventory of products.  Of course, some are more progressive than others.  But the point is, as a shopper you can be discriminating as you seek to orchestrate a positive experience that will address the objectives of a tribute coupled with a mourning mode.  You have choices.  And your selection may make a difference in the outcome.

Here’s a list that may help you identify your own goals when choosing a funeral home.   These are characteristics that might be deemed necessary or desirable.  Arrange them in order of importance to you personally.

Location

Reputation

Corporate or Independent Ownership

Recommendations

Previous Personal Experience

Ethnic and Religious Affiliation

Ethical Practice and Adherence To Federal Trade Commission Regulations

One-stop Shopping

Cost

Personalization Options

Physical Appearance

Facility Features and Size

Specific Services and Products

Advanced Technical Services

Website Quality and Optimization

Good Embalming Results

Adherence To Embalming Requirement For Visitation

Standard Operating Procedures Versus Flexibility

Authentic Compassion and Interpersonal Relations

Staff Personalities

Bereavement Support

Once you recognize the factors that are relevant and paramount for your situation, it will be easier to decide which facilities you want to explore. Perhaps at some point during your investigation you’ll suddenly realize that the process can be quite enjoyable.  Instead of making a beeline down the street, maybe you’ll pause to ponder the possibilities.  The death care industry is alive with them!
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