Death Practices Flashcards
Why were many colonists disappointed with changing death practice?
The practice of commemorative rings became unfashionable
What is the significance of rings in colonial death practices?
Families created commemorative rings for their loved ones with inscriptions like “Death aaparts United Hearts” and passed them down through generations
What is the significance of draping black cloth during mourning
Black cloth, ribbons, or sashes were used to decorate homes and kept for a year-long mourning period
What were death photographs in the late 1800s to early 1900s
Photos of the dead, posed as if alive, were popular among grieving families during the early days of photography
How did cremation rates change in the U.S from 1970 to 2030?
5% in 1970, 55% in 2017, and expected to reach 71% by 2030
Why is cremation becoming more popular?
It cheaper and more eco-friendly than traditional burials
What is water cremation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)
A process where the body dissolves in a vat, leaving only bones, which are then returned to the family as ashes
What is cremains creativity?
Companies offer services like turning cremains into vinyl records, tattoo ink, or even ammunition
What is green burial?
The burial of an unembalmed corpse in a biodegradable container, making it cheaper and more eco-friendly
What are at-home funerals?
Families care for their dead loved ones at home, handling washing, dressing, viewing, and burial themselves
Why do some funeral homes use therapy dogs?
Therapy dogs comfort mourners and provide a distraction during the grieving process
How did COVID-19 change funeral practices?
It led to an increase in private gravesite services to reduce infection risks
What is the funeral practice of the Torajans of Indonesia?
The deceased’s body remains with the family until the funeral, and they continue to care for and speak to it
What is the unique aspect of Japanese cremation practices?
Family members use chopsticks to pick up the bones after cremation and place them in an urn
What are the unique coffins of the people from the Accra region of Ghana?
They create coffins representing something important to the deceased, such as a fish or a pepper
