Frequently Asked Questions
What is Natural Death Care? How is it different from other funeral care?
Death is a part of life, and so its only natural that in death those who loved them should be involved and engaged in their care. Being involved in after death care and funeral arrangements gives the grieving a sense of control and belonging. They are not passive bystanders watching events unfold before them, but active participants during the journey.
Natural care also focuses on the physical. There is no use of harsh chemicals in after death care. Instead we use a combination of essential oils such as frankincense, myrhh and clove oils. We also do not carry out, what we feel to be invasive procedures, instead allowing the body to find its own state of repose.
Natural care is also about respecting our environment by adhering to the principles of sustainability as much as possible.
What is a Vigil?
At the time immediately leading up to death and thereafter, the holding of a vigil can be a very powerful tool. Vigil is the idea of holding a space where the dying is supported to move through the process of leaving (or excarnating) from the physical body. It can be likened to travelling alongside someone on a very important journey, rather than sending them off alone. Depending on Belief systems this can be a quick or gradual process taking several days. Candles, mementos, prayers, blessings and sacred texts can be of great assistance in holding vigil space. Gentle massage of hands and feet can also be a deeply soothing and honouring experience. What is of greatest importance though is that the dying knows they are not alone and those travelling alongside them are wishing them well as they approach and cross the threshold of life.
Are funerals compulsory?
No, there are many ways in which a life can be honoured without holding a formal funeral service. A formal funeral service is something that many of us have grown up to expect when someone close has died. Honouring the life of someone who has died can take on many forms and descriptions. A no service no attendance ‘bare essentials’ direct cremation with a personalised memorial service is becoming increasingly popular. Not only can this be more cost effective, it enables far greater input from family and friends over what this life honouring experience might look like.
Do I need to use a funeral home?
Easy answer is NO you dont really. As long as you are following the requirements of the 'Burials and Cremation Act 2019' and its associated regulations, there is no need for a funeral director. In reality it is significantly easier to engage a supportive funeral home, such as Mary Eleanor, who will assist you to hold space following the death of the loved on. This enables you to focus on your grief rather than administrative requirements.
Why do funerals seem so expensive?
For many years, and for a variety of reasons we have handed over complete care, funeral planning and execution of services over to funeral homes. On the whole, they have carried out their tasks very well. Not unlike other specialist companies, a funeral company has limited competition allowing them to charge accordingly.
At Mary Eleanor we believe that the more families wish to be involved, the better it is not only for their bereavement journey but also their 'hip pocket' so to speak. The major costs involved in a funeral are
Professional fees charged by funeral home
Disbursements (costs incurred such as cremation or burial fees, flowers, venue hire, newspaper notices etc)
Coffins
By paying what we believe to be a fair price for our services, the price paid by our families is often significantly less than larger more commercially based funeral homes.
What is Home Based Death Care?
For some the idea of strangers caring for their deceased is just not an option. With the right funeral provider to support you there is nothing to say you can’t keep your loved one at home until it is time for internment or cremation. It was not an uncommon practice only a few generations ago, and is still widely accepted in many cultures and countries today. At Mary Eleanor, we are very supportive of your desire to undertake your own care and are happy to explore this possibility with you.
What is the first thing I should do when death occurs and who should I notify ?
If it is a totally unexpected death, you should call the police or ambulance, and not move the body unless its injurious to public safety.
If the deceased was under palliative care immediately prior to their death then notify the treating doctor or call an ambulance.
Generally speaking, a body can not be removed from their place of death without a clear chain of paperwork stating who is/has signed off on the death certificate. Once this is in place you can then call your funeral provider.
How much time do we have between death and holding a service?
As much as you need and is practicable. Although in Tasmania after 30 days significant explanations may be required.
Can I change my mind and transfer between funeral homes?
Yes, you can with the understanding that the other funeral home may have already incurred some costs such as transportation which may need to be paid.
Should we have a viewing?
This is a hugely personal question, but under the right circumstances our experience says that it can be helpful for an individuals grief and bereavement process. In viewing, the death becomes somehow more real and the grief of such a loss can become more real. Some are very clear that they do not wish to see their beloved following death as they wish those final memories to be their last. For others who perhaps weren’t able to see the deceased prior to death, a viewing may be their only opportunity to say a final goodbye. Viewing can also assure the grieving that their loved one is now at peace.
How do I get a Death Certificate?
As a part of our professional fees and service we obtain the information required to register the death with Births Deaths and Marriages (BDM).
This needs to be done within 7 days of service. We will also order a death certificate on your behalf which can be returned to you in a variety or ways depending on urgency of need.
A Death Certificate can also be ordered through Service Tasmania by filling out application form and paying prescribed fee.