SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Tradition is meeting innovation in today’s memorial practices, proving that even life’s final chapter can be reimagined.

Today’s funerals bear little resemblance to those of the past. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), cremation surpassed traditional burials as the preferred method of laying the deceased to rest in 2015. That trend continues today, with the estimated cremation rate in the United States in 2024 at 61.9%, and the burial rate estimated at 33.2%.

The tone of funerals has also changed, with many opting to host a celebration of life characterized with bright colors, upbeat music and even laughter as loved ones remember treasured moments together.

A newer, somewhat surprising trend is not waiting for a loved one to die before officially celebrating their life. Known as living funerals, these highly customized ceremonies are actually overseen and attended by the to-be deceased.

Technology is taking a more dominant role in memorials. Streaming services, virtual memorials and online tributes make it possible to pay one’s respects without traveling. Digital tools make planning the funeral or celebration faster and more convenient.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes is an environmental focus. Biodegradable polymer urns are available that release nutrients into the Earth. Tree pod burials involve wrapping the individual in an organic fiber buried where a tree will be planted. While such green options are increasingly popular, they are not yet available everywhere and must follow stringent requirements.

Water cremation, also known as alkaline-hydrolysis or aquamation, is becoming more common because of its low-carbon footprint. Although it is far from a frequent form of disposition, it is gaining popularity and legal acceptance. Among other environmental benefits, it offers 90% energy savings over fire cremation.

Of course, cost is often a key consideration. Unless the deceased’s family is wealthy, they will likely rely on the proceeds of existing life insurance policies to cover costs.

According to the NFDA, the median cost of a funeral with viewing and traditional burial in 2024 was $8,300. Cremation is less expensive, which helps to explain its growing popularity. But there are other expenses to consider. These include cemetery plots, headstones, flowers, musicians, transportation and obituaries.

The face value of life insurance policies varies greatly depending on a family’s financial situation. At minimum, financial advisors will typically recommend that a life insurance policy be purchased with a death benefit to pay for final expenses. These smaller policies, which average $5,000-$25,000, are designed solely to cover necessary costs without financially burdening family. Smaller whole life policies can accomplish the same goals. Neither, however, do much to help survivors sustain a standard of living following a death.

Determining exactly how much life insurance you and your loved ones need and the best form of coverage can be challenging, especially considering there are more options today than ever. But, with the help of an experienced life insurance agent, the process is not overwhelming. Erie Insurance agents, for example, work closely with clients to fully understand their financial needs today and in the future and match them with the right policy (term, whole, universal, etc.).

“Our agents serve as advocates, helping streamline the application process, advise on policy options, conduct reviews and manage necessary changes to policies over the years. They also assist with claims and act as liaisons with the insurance company,” said Mike Fletcher, SVP, sales and marketing, of Erie Insurance.

To help give you a head start on planning, visit erieinsurance.com/life-insurance/calculator. This fast, private, no-obligation planning tool will help determine how much life insurance you need based on your age, family situation, burial plans and financial status.

While funeral practices are in flux, one thing remains the same, a life insurance policy can help loved ones meet expenses.

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