Year after year, the number of cremations in Belgium and the Netherlands increases: 7 out of 10 people have themselves cremated. Why this evolution?
Cremation is the burning of the deceased in a cremation furnace. This is done at the crematorium. In Belgium & the Netherlands, nearly 70% choose this form of corpse delivery.
Causes
It is generally assumed that the number of cremations (doubling in 20 years) increased mainly as a result of the declining number of Catholic believers. After all, Catholics traditionally chose a classical funeral with a burial in the ground.
Other factors also play a role in the rising popularity of cremations. Previous legal obstacles to cremation have been much relaxed, making it easier to choose cremation. There is also a sociological evolution. After World War II, people have become much more mobile and move more easily from their family's place of residence. Therefore, the attractiveness of family graves has greatly diminished. The fact that people want to maintain control over their lives, even after death, is also a factor. Many people determine before they die what will happen to their physical remains and prefer not to "digest" under the ground.
These trends are expected to continue and the number of cremations to rise further to 85%.
"Cremation is scary"
Burning a human body used to be seen as something frightening, as something scary, but that stream of thought has completely disappeared. In addition, today there are many options for preserving a beautiful memory of the deceased after cremation:
- Keeping ashes in an ornate, stylish urn (at home or elsewhere)
- Incorporating ashes into memorial jewelry
- Scattering ashes at a memorial site
Less worry
A cremation also generally has less aftermath. After all, with a traditional burial, the next of kin are still faced with a bill every so often for the cost of the grave right or maintenance of the grave monument.
Cremations have also become increasingly personal over time. There is more attention to the personal wishes of the deceased and the next of kin.
Finally, the cost of a cremation is simply covered by funeral insurance, just like a traditional burial.
How does a cremation take place?
You can arrange the cremation yourself through the crematorium or use a funeral director. Funeral directors take care of the complete handling and administration of the cremation.
Do you have a question?
You can call us at +32 476 31 75 60, or send us an e-mail. We are ready to listen to your wishes and to work with you to find the appropriate urn.