It has been stated the funeral industry has not adapted to changing social values despite being aware of the needs and desires of our aging baby boomer population, expected to reach 23% of the population by 2031. Traditional funerals are now viewed by many as being too expensive. 

‍

Baby boomers, a generation defined by celebrating individualism has never felt more disconnected from the setting and tone a funeral home offers.  The Funeral Service Foundation, years ago, along with a marketing research firm published results that this generation found traditional funeral settings were lonely, cold, impersonal, uneasy, among other negative descriptors. For their own funeral they wanted something that would celebrate their life and tell their story. They wanted services that would be personalized, a celebration, create togetherness and sharing.  It is not only the baby boomers who feel this way. Their children echo these sentiments. 

We know that spending reflects values.  Cremation is over 65% now in Ontario, compared with 5.9% in 1970.  Those who choose direct cremation now cite expense as one of the biggest reasons. One of the advantages of direct cremation in terms of planning a Celebration of Life is a more flexible timeline.  Some people want out of town relatives to be able to attend.  Others wait for fairer weather to have a celebration of life after a Spring urn burial or scattering.  

‍

The third largest reason why people opt for cremation now is the environment. Amy Cunningham, a writer turned funeral director told the New York Times in 2014 that when the baby boom is of age and we’re actively leaving this world, the environmentally friendly approach will be business as usual.

Find our more about how Celebrations of Life Toronto meets the need for an alternative funeral and how we address environmental concerns by contacting us.