We can't stop that death will find each of us. But we can know how we'd like our final days and services to be.  Deciding, discussing and data sharing with others are ways we get the care we may want and avoid things we don't. Americans have more choices than ever. Cremation was almost unheard of before 1960; now, almost 60 percent of families opt for it. Twenty-​six states have legalized alkaline hydrolysis, which uses water, lye, and heat. In an era defined by the climate crisis, green burial and human composting speak to eco-conscious customers. 

Today there are many options for you or your loved one. Along with new technologies and trends, there is also a growing return to older and simpler ways of death and disposition. Being able to make these choices can be healing for everyone.