Columnists

Cremation and The Impact of the Baby Boomer

Issue 33.17

The U.S. Census Bureau defines a baby boomer as a person who was born during the post-World War II era from 1946 to 1964.  Different groups, organizations, individuals, and scholars have widely varying opinions on what constitutes a baby boomer; however, the historical impact of this particular generation cannot be denied, even in the cremation and funeral industry.

Many baby boomers have already faced the death of a loved one, and statistics show that boomers tend to make choices based on different criteria than previous generations.  More and more baby boomers are opting for cremation for a wide variety of reasons, including environmental concerns, cost effectiveness and the diminishment of religious restrictions.  Personalization, however, is also highly important to boomers, and they have learned that selecting cremation does not reduce the number of choices available.  Often there is a desire to add meaning to a cremation by including a gathering or memorial service with a personalized ceremony or tribute that reflects the hobbies, passions, and interests of the deceased.  Choices can include a viewing prior to cremation, a full funeral service, a memorial service, or a graveside service.  All choices can be public or private, simple or elaborate.  Whatever the selection, many boomers strive to create an experience as unique as their loved one.

Recent marketing research suggests that baby boomers enjoy experiences that make them feel empowered.  They are considered a “take charge” generation, one that strives for their personal best.  Boomers are social-savvy and tend to do on-line research before they make an important decision.  These factors contribute to the tendency for boomers to want to pre-plan their own funerals.  At the Cremation Center of Southern Utah, we welcome this type of foresight.  Pre-planning is one of the most important things an individual can do for their loved ones to ensure that the difficult decisions have already been made.

Whether or not you fall into the category of baby boomer, let us help you take care of the details.  We are cremation experts and will guide you through the pre-planning process with clarity and compassion.  Contact us today to obtain your copy of a free planning guide or to take a private tour of our beautiful facility.  We are located just off Riverside Dr. at 1316 S. 400 E., Suite A5, in St. George, UT, (435) 986-9100, www.cremationcentersu.com.

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