There is no requirement for how long you should stay at a visitation. The length of your visit depends more on how well you know the family and how long it takes to offer your condolences and speak to other visitors. Many people stay a short time, about 15 minutes, which can be long enough to extend your sympathies.
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How long is a typical viewing?
Typically, plan at least an hour and a half for groups or 30 or more.
What happens at viewing?
A viewing is an unstructured gathering of friends and family where visitors can pay their respects to either the deceased after having been prepared by a mortician, or to a cremation urn or series of memorial photos. A viewing, compared to a funeral, is generally a more informal event.
Can you wear jeans to a viewing?
Is it okay to wear jeans to a wake? You should not wear jeans to a wake or visitation if at all possible. In some instances where it is inevitable due to leaving directly from work, etc. paying your respects to the family and the deceased comes before inappropriate clothing.
How is a body prepared for viewing?
The first step in the embalming process is surgical, in which bodily fluids are removed and are replaced with formaldehyde-based chemical solutions. The second step is cosmetic, in which the body is prepared for viewing by styling the hair, applying makeup, and setting the facial features.
Should you view the body at a funeral?
It concluded: Many people bereaved by a sudden and traumatic death think it is important to see the body of their loved one. However, within a family there will be different attitudes; some bereaved relatives may want to view, but others will not, and some will find viewing helpful, but others may find it distressing.
What is appropriate to wear to a viewing?
We recommend wearing dark or neutral colors, because darker colors reflect the mourning atmosphere of the service or visitation. Clothing can be formal (think suits and dresses) or casual (pants or nice jeans and shirts).
Do you wear black to a viewing?
Also, it is not necessary to wear black to a visitation. Despite what you might see on TV, any color is fine. However, we do suggest comfortable shoes. Depending on the size of the crowd, you might be standing in line for a bit.
Do you bring anything to a viewing?
While it is customary in many families for immediate friends and family to bring family food like cake, cookies, or any sweet dish for the visitors. It is still a thoughtful gesture even if you’re not a close acquaintance.
Is it better to go to viewing or funeral?
It’s typically considered more important to attend the funeral service. Perhaps you’d feel more comfortable only attending the funeral; however, you might like the chance to speak to the family in a more relaxed setting at the visitation. As long as you’re kind and respectful, the choice is yours.
What should you not say at a funeral?
Seven Things You Should Never Say at Funerals
- “He/She Deserved to Die”
- “It Could be Worse”
- “It was Destiny”
- “Everything Happens for a Reason”
- “At Least…”
- “You’re Still Young”
- “It’s Better…”
What do you say at a visitation?
When attending a visitation, here are examples of what you can say to the family:
- My condolences.
- I’m really sorry you’re going through this.
- Your mom was a wonderful woman.
- You loved him/her well.
- I’m thinking of your family during this difficult time.
Do they break your legs to put you in a casket?
Funeral directors and embalmers never break a person’s legs so they can fit them in a casket or a coffin: If a body is ever too tall for a casket, the mortician will simply find one that is larger. In some cases, legs may be slightly bent at the knee joint – but that’s about it.
Why do they cover the legs in a casket?
They cover the legs in a casket because the deceased is not wearing shoes in many cases due to the difficulty of putting them on stiff feet. Also, funeral directors may recommend it to save money, for religious reasons, in the event of trauma, for easier transportation, or with tall bodies.
Can you touch a body at a funeral?
If you have an adult with you at the funeral home, it is ok to touch a dead body, and you will not get in trouble. You are naturally curious, and sometimes when you see and touch a dead body it helps you answer your questions. Remember to be gentle and have an adult help you.
Why are bodies washed after death?
It is cleaned to remove traces of fluid or blood. The hair is washed. You complete the cause of death documentation and the body can be released for cremation or burial.
What does a body look like after 3 days of death?
3-5 days after death — the body starts to bloat and blood-containing foam leaks from the mouth and nose. 8-10 days after death — the body turns from green to red as the blood decomposes and the organs in the abdomen accumulate gas. Several weeks after death — nails and teeth fall out.
How long do you stay at a wake?
According to the The Funeral Source, it is appropriate for guests to stay at the wake for as little as 15 to 20 minutes. However, you should use your own discretion upon deciding when to leave. If you’re close with the family, you may want to stay longer. Offer to help and socialize with the other guests at the wake.
Is it OK to not wear black at a funeral?
Wearing dark grey or deep blue is just as appropriate as black, while brown and lighter greys are suitable for the vast majority of funeral services. However, unless specifically requested by the deceased or their family, you should avoid any bright colors such as yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds.
What is the purpose of a viewing at a funeral?
A funeral viewing means the body of the deceased is present, often in an open casket. The deceased will have been embalmed and prepared by the funeral home and ready for the burial or cremation. This is an opportunity to see the deceased one last time and say your quiet farewells.
Is it rude to not go to a funeral?
Choosing whether to attend is at the discretion of each individual, family member. Whatever you choose, know that it isn’t disrespectful to not go to a funeral for personal reasons.