For many, death is something that they do not want to think about or even discuss. But there is no doubt it is a fact of life. Although there is no way of avoiding it, there are ways in which we one can plan for its occurrence and help those that are left to deal with the situation with dignity and grace. One of those ways it to consider cremation.

The choice between being buried or cremated is very personal to everyone and for some cremation is not an option they would likely choose. However, the others that choose cremation have many possible reasons for doing so, the main ones being simplicity, the low cost, and the many memorial possibilities that are available.

Today, almost 30% of Americans are choosing to be cremated rather than buried and more than 700,000 cremations are performed each year in the US. Due to the growing popularity, there are now over 1,700 crematories offering their services around the country.

There are a number of reasons as to why people are now choosing cremation over burial and these include:

1. Less Expensive Than Traditional Burials - Cremation is a cheaper alternative compared to burial as you do not need to purchase a plot of land or an expensive coffin. Many people who choose to be cremated believe they can save their families' unnecessary expense.

2. Environmental Reasons - As you have no coffin or there is no burial involved. Land is not required where a cremation is concerned and so your body is not placed in the earth along with other items which may be detrimental to it.

3. Personal Choice - Many people prefer today that their families celebrate their lives and allow them to go back to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Also, cremation is a low-key way to go without the need for a huge funeral procession.

4. Ashes Can Be Released - Many people like the idea that their ashes can be strewn at a favourite location and it is also comforting for the family to know that they can put their loved one's ashes at a favourite spot and allow them rest where they were happiest for the rest of eternity. You may decide it is your own back garden or even on a mountainside somewhere. Where your ashes are strewn is entirely up to you.

5. You Can Still Have a Ceremony - Although a coffin and big funeral will not be necessary, you may want to choose this route anyway. You could have a memorial service and a follow-up service which takes place at the time when your ashes are strewn if that is what you want.

As you can see, cremation provides many options, and can be handled in any way you desire. Expressing these concerns with loved ones can ensure that your last wishes are honored and respected.