More people express interest in living funerals, research finds

People are increasingly choosing to have living funerals – which are sometimes referred to as ‘pre-funerals’ or as a living wake – where someone’s life can be celebrated while they’re still alive, according to new research from Funeral Choice.

While 71% of people in the UK have already considered how they want their funeral to be, the survey found that a further 29% are interested in having a funeral while they are there for it. 

The popularity of living funerals rises – and almost doubles – in young adults, with 53% of 18 to 24-year-olds being interested in a living funeral for themselves, and 52% of 25 to 34-year-olds keen too.

Alix Baldwin, director of Funeral Choice, said: “Historically, living funerals would be more commonly held for people who are terminally ill as a way to be present and say their goodbyes in their own way. What’s interesting is that our study has found that more UK adults are interested in being there for their own funeral, regardless of their age or health status. 

“The funeral industry is ever-changing as attitudes and preferences evolve within the UK. As a result, living funerals are starting to become more of an option. While the industry adapts to this newer funeral type, those considering if this might be the right choice for them, can see our guidance on organising a living funeral.”

According to study findings, there have also been more than 18,000 Google searches made in the UK on the direct topic of ‘living funeral’ each month, which has increased by 30% over the past 12 months. 

Baldwin added: “Over the last decade, funerals on screen have focused more on celebrations of life, or raw and personal experiences, such as the living funeral on the recent Netflix rom-com Love At First Sight. Choosing your own send-off is an incredibly personal decision, so to want to be part of those goodbyes in person is understandable.”