For those living nearby attending a funeral is a matter of taking a few hours out. But let’s say the family is living in different parts of the world. When you consider travel times and other factors, if you’re in another country, attending a funeral can add up to weeks away and huge costs.
But technology has changed the way you can attend a funeral and remember a loved one. From livestreaming services to virtual memorials, incorporating digital tools into funerals allows families to connect, personalise, and enhance the experience.
The Rise of Livestreamed Funerals
Livestreamed funerals became widely popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a practical and safe solution for families unable to gather in person. But they remained the perfect option for including distant relatives, friends, or those unable to travel.
Today, video conferencing platforms like Zoom or even YouTube make it easy to share the event in real-time. And the industry has grown to include many businesses who specialise in funeral livestreaming services.
These professional services ensure a seamless experience, testing equipment beforehand, and provide clear access instructions to attendees. They will also designate someone to oversee the stream during the service.
While close family and friends will likely always want to attend in person, livestreaming’s benefits also mean reduced travel costs and allows people to participate, even if they can’t be there physically, perhaps through illness or frailty.
You can even include a livestream service when you make funeral arrangements. Not all funeral plans include this but you can easily add this as an extra service when you make your funeral arrangements or take out any funeral finance. Some directors might include livestreaming for free; the church or crematorium might also have it as standard in their premises. If you want a livestreaming service your funeral director will be able to advise you.
Livestreaming is only part of what’s available when it comes to technological advancements and remembering a loved one.
Personalised Slideshow and Video Presentations
A photo slideshow or videos can also be played during the funeral, sharing cherished memories through photos, video clips, favourite songs, and personal messages. To create a meaningful tribute, involve multiple family members in choosing content.
Digital Tributes and Memorials
Digital tribute platforms allow family and friends to collectively honour a loved one in a meaningful, interactive way. Such platforms let users create online memorials where they can share photos, stories, and heartfelt messages. Some are free, some are paid and they become lasting archives, accessible anytime.
Social media has also become a powerful way to share funeral details and condolences. Families can post updates, share livestream links, and create private groups for attendees to coordinate or share memories.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Memorials
As technology advances, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are opening new possibilities for memorialization. VR allows families to create virtual spaces where they can “visit” a loved one’s grave or memorial site without leaving home. AR, on the other hand, can enhance physical memorials by linking QR codes to digital content like photos, videos, or personal stories.
While these options are innovative, they may not be for everyone. It’s important to consider the emotional impact and whether these technologies align with the wishes of the deceased and their family. When used thoughtfully, VR and AR can provide unique ways to honour a loved one’s memory.
Technology for Organising Funerals
Planning a funeral is never easy, but technology can simplify the process. If any of your loved ones don’t have prepaid funeral plans, funeral planning apps and websites offer tools for coordinating every detail, from selecting a venue to managing guest lists. These platforms can help families organise tasks like sending invitations, collecting RSVPs, and sharing directions with attendees.
Additionally, some apps provide budgeting tools, helping families track expenses and compare options for services, flowers, or catering. By streamlining the planning process, technology can reduce stress and allow families to focus on what matters most — celebrating their loved one’s life.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating technology into a funeral doesn’t mean abandoning tradition. Instead, it offers opportunities to enhance traditional elements and allow everyone to be part of things. A digital tribute can complement physical photo boards or memorial displays.
While embracing technology, remember the purpose of a funeral: to celebrate life, provide comfort, and bring people together and create a heartfelt farewell that truly honours a loved one’s legacy.