Where Does Aftercare Take Place for a Body?
In the Hospital
Immediately after death, the body is typically taken to the hospital morgue. Here, the body is cleaned and prepared for burial or cremation. The medical examiner may also perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
At a Funeral Home
Once the body has been released from the hospital, it is usually taken to a funeral home. Here, the family can make arrangements for the funeral and burial or cremation. The funeral home will also help the family with other tasks, such as ordering flowers and writing the obituary.
At Home
In some cases, the family may choose to keep the body at home for a period of time before the funeral. This is typically done if the family wants to have a traditional wake or visitation. The body is usually kept in a refrigerated casket in the home.
Other Locations
In addition to the above locations, aftercare for a body can also take place in other places, such as:
- A crematorium
- A cemetery
- A mausoleum
- A church or other religious institution
The Importance of Aftercare
Aftercare is an important part of the grieving process. It allows the family to say goodbye to their loved one and to begin to heal from their loss. Aftercare can also help the family to make important decisions about the funeral and burial or cremation.
Making Decisions About Aftercare
When making decisions about aftercare, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The wishes of the deceased
- The needs of the family
- The financial resources available
- The religious or cultural beliefs of the family
Resources for Aftercare
There are many resources available to help families with aftercare. These resources include:
- Funeral homes
- Hospices
- Grief counselors
- Religious institutions
- Community organizations
Conclusion
Aftercare is an important part of the grieving process. It allows the family to say goodbye to their loved one and to begin to heal from their loss. When making decisions about aftercare, it is important to consider the following factors: the wishes of the deceased, the needs of the family, the financial resources available, the religious or cultural beliefs of the family. There are many resources available to help families with aftercare.