What should embalming disclosures aim to achieve?

Embalming disclosures should aim to educate consumers about the process and its benefits. By providing clear and comprehensive information, families can better understand what embalming involves, the procedures followed, and the reasons why it might be beneficial. This education helps families make informed decisions regarding their loved ones’ arrangements, particularly in understanding how embalming can preserve the body for memorial services and enhance the appearance of the deceased.

Communicating the advantages of embalming, such as the ability to postpone burial or cremation, conduct open-casket services, and provide a more favorable impression of the deceased, contributes to the transparency and trust that are fundamental in funeral services. This also allows families to weigh their options against their beliefs and preferences, leading to more personalized and meaningful end-of-life decisions.

Effective disclosures do not push families to avoid embalming or oversimplify the decision-making process; instead, they present balanced, factual information that respects the family's autonomy in making their choices. Additionally, while there may be discussions around standardizing procedures, this is not the primary focus of disclosures, which are meant more to inform and empower consumers.