What Coronavirus Means For Funerals In Australia

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Coronavirus has touched nearly every corner of the world since it began in late 2019 and has changed how most businesses and individuals live their lives on a daily basis. While many businesses in Australia have moved to operate online only, for some, that is simply not an option. If you have had a loved one or close friend die in recent weeks, coronavirus has no doubt put an extra strain on this painful time for you. As of right now, there are some things that a funeral home can still do for you and some they can't and it is important to be as up to date as possible.

Are Funerals Still Running?

As of the 31st of March 2020, a funeral home may still organise and run a funeral as long as attendance is kept to fewer than 10 people and the space is big enough for attendees to practice proper social distancing. It is important to note the date on this information as the situation is still fluid and new rules and regulations are being updated every day. For the most up to date information, you should check the Australian government's page on public gatherings, which you can find here

Can I Still Plan A Funeral For The Future?

Funerals encompass a lot of elements, and many of the tasks you needed to do before you can still complete now. The only difference is that now most of your organisation has to be done online. It is common for a funeral home to have quite a detailed website with information on caskets, services, burial plots, memorials, catering and everything that is normally associated with a complete funeral package. Even if government regulations get stricter and funerals become virtually impossible, you can still buy and book a lot of helpful items on your local funeral home's website. 

How Are Funeral Homes Adapting To This New Challenge?

Many funeral homes are now shifting to streaming their services online for extended family and friends who are no longer permitted to be at the funeral in person. This will only grow as the lockdown enters its second and third month. Even without taking into account coronavirus victims every month, thousands of people die in Australia of natural causes. These funerals will still need to go ahead, so it is important to stay up to date with your local funeral home to see how they address this current crisis. This is an evolving situation, and everyone is doing as best as they can, so expect new techniques to be introduced frequently. 

 To learn more, contact a funeral home in your area like Nelson Bros Funeral Services.

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2 April 2020

Avoiding conflict at funerals

Funerals can be a tricky time, as people are often on edge trying to deal with their grief. Some people also become argumentative when upset, so it can be a good idea to work with the funeral home to work out how to manage the maelstrom of emotions that are going on. It can often be useful to separate certain members of the family or social groups if you know that they are inclined to get aggressive or very loud when very upset. A great funeral home can help you to manage these sorts of issues to help ensure that the funeral runs smoothly.