Savvy Senior: Planning a simple, affordable funeral

Dear Savvy Senior,I’d like to make my end-of-life arrangements, but I want to keep things simple and affordable. What are my options?— 86-Year-OldDear 86,Smart thinking! Planning ahead can save your loved ones a lot of stress, and money. With a traditional burial averaging around $10,000 and a full-service cremation near $6,500, it’s easy to see why many seniors are looking for simpler, lower-cost ways to say goodbye.The good news is, there are plenty of options that are dignified, straightforward, and much easier on your wallet. Here’s a look at some choices, depending on the kind of farewell you want.Direct cremationIf cremation appeals to you, a direct cremation is the simplest – and usually the least expensive – option. It includes picking up the body, completing the required paperwork, the cremation itself, and returning the ashes to your family.

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