Funeral Homes Support the Grieving During COVID-19

As the coronavirus pandemic disrupts businesses across the globe, funeral directors have remained committed to the families they serve, providing unique and creative ways to meet their needs.

Going the (Social) Distance

Often considered an antiquated industry, funeral and cemetery providers across the world stepped up to learn new technology. Within weeks, funeral care associates began meeting with families virtually, utilizing unfamiliar platforms. For the first time, families are making final arrangements in no-contact, virtual consultations, and attending funeral services from the safety of their own home via livestream.

Far-away condolences

Funeral arrangers are well acquainted with the need for support during times of loss. In-person support is preferred, but the current environment makes this largely impossible. Many associates have found unique ways for people to show support while staying safe.

Some funeral homes collected the condolence messages of would-be guests ahead of time and wrote them on balloons. Upon arrival, the immediate family was comforted by these balloon representations of their friends or family members.

Other innovative teams have posted photos of sent floral arrangements and accompanying cards on Facebook at the service time, so those who sent them can see the flowers and know they arrived.

If the service was live-streamed via Facebook, associates printed the virtual guest list, along with any comments, placing them in the register book as a keepsake for the family.

During the funeral procession to the cemetery, one team arranged to make a special detour by the home of the World War II veteran. When the coach entered his neighbourhood, several neighbours, with children and pets, lined the streets, holding flags and signs to show their support.

Associates Cater to their Communities

It is customary for the grieving family to be served a meal on the day of the funeral or memorial service. With restaurant closures, take-out only protocols and social distancing mandates in place, this meal usually shared with close friends and family, isn’t possible. In an effort to provide this comfort to families, funeral home and cemetery associates began hand-delivering catered meals to families’ homes.

Hope on the Horizon

With many funerals and memorial services delayed, one of the biggest challenges funeral professionals face is how to maintain contact with the families they are committed to serving with care and compassion.

To stay connected, teams are being proactive by setting future dates for services. Funeral professionals have found that setting a tentative date provides families some hope for the future and peace of mind that they will be able to have a fitting tribute for their loved one.

Schedule a No-Contact, Remote Consultation

At Dignity Memorial, we remain committed to the health of our guests. In addition to these possible memorial options, we are proud to offer remote planning consultations. Request a free quote online and you’ll be connected with a local funeral planning professional. By phone and email, you can get all your questions answered from the comfort of your own home. Contact us today to find our more about the special savings and benefits available to CARP members and their families. Visit CARP.DignityMemorial.com or call 866-668-1841.