How Deaths & Funerals have changed because of Covid

Masks and sanitizers are now compulsory items we have to carry everywhere.  The novel Coronavirus has drastically changed our lives.  When the world first heard of coronavirus, it created fear and panic among nations. A virus that started from Wuhan reached the corners of the world rapidly. Scientists and medical experts turned their heads toward researching the cause and effects on the human body. Millions of questions and fears arose. How it is transmitted, how deadly it can be and when it will end?  The word ‘’Quarantine’ grabbed popularity as it seemed to be the only way to tackle the contagious virus in the early days. 

Effects of Covid-19 in Singapore:

Like every other country, Covid also affected Singapore in various ways. It affected all aspects of society from education, economy to health care systems. The first case of Covid in Singapore was detected on 23rd January 2020.  Ever since then, a lot has changed. Lockdowns are considered to be a key protective measure in limiting the spread of the virus. Let’s take a look at the effects of Covid in Singapore:

  • Impact on Economy:

After the outbreak of the Corona Virus, the economy had been severely affected. Import and Export slowed down. We have seen a downfall in business due to restrictions. Unemployment increased due to the fall of the market and business. Production of goods was also affected. We have seen a spike in prices as well.

  • Social Impact:

Limitations on social gatherings and isolation have led to prolonged stress. Not being able to see your friends and family have affected mental health. 

  • Travel and Tourism:

Singapore has tourist attractions because of many exotic places. It is famous for Singapore flyers, Botanic gardens, Universal Studios, and more. Singapore’s economy is also affected by travel restrictions. PCR tests a compulsion for traveling. Also, every country has different approved vaccines which have affected the tourism rate. 

  • Health care systems:

We have to give the utmost respect and value to our health care providers. They have been on their toes ever since the pandemic. The hospitals were overwhelmed with Covid patients. Hospital authorities had to increase their capacity and facilities.

  • Consumer Behavior:

We have seen a boom in online business after Covid. People have shifted their market presence to online presence. As there are restrictions on going out, the online shopping trend drastically increased during lockdowns.  

Deaths and Funerals during the pandemic:

Covid-19 changed death, funeral rituals, and how we mourn. Due to the contagious nature of the virus, unprecedented restrictions are implemented as safety measures. Different states have limited the number of visitations allowed for funerals. Because of restrictions, everyone cannot attend funerals which has led to prolonged grief. 

In Singapore, the funeral industry was also overwhelmed with the increase in the death rate due to Covid. Funeral service providers had to amend their services and packages according to new rules. Singapore Nirvana memorial Gardens provides funeral services following SOPs. Every funeral ritual of different religious beliefs was attended according to new rules. Nirvana Memorial Gardens provides funeral packages for different beliefs. Nirvana Columbarium is also available, providing state-of-the-art facilities. 

It increased in cremation work, more space to bury, and funeral homes or columbarium. The work efficiency is also affected if the funeral service providers fell ill to Covid or are quarantined. We have seen delays in funerals due to work overload and less working staff. It also makes the funeral industries expand their services and construction of funeral homes, columbariums, and cemeteries. 

Use of Technology in Funerals:

People were not able to attend or hold funeral services physically due to restrictions. The world has shifted to technology to connect people in grief. People hold now hold virtual funerals via zoom or other platforms. It has also highlighted the significant importance of technology and the Internet. 

Online Mourning:

Visiting the family of the deceased is difficult. People now console either online or over the phone. Social media platforms are now more used for communication purposes. People also don’t mind being consoled over the phone.

Handling deceased body:

Hospitals closed visitation for the protection of the citizens. Hospital staff, wearing protective gear, prepared the body for the funeral and carry out rituals according to beliefs. If the body is given to funeral service providers, they also are to follow strict SOPs. Family members are not allowed to touch or kiss the body.  It is indeed very painful for family members but it’s the need of the hour.

In Singapore, people visit tombs or graveyards to clean and offer prayers for the deceased. But now, cemetery staff perform the ritual and live-stream it for the family. 

Telemedicine and Virtual Visits:

Singapore took a great step to lower hospital burden by introducing telemedicine. Patients other than Covid, consult online through telemedicine. This has significantly reduced the number of patients in the hospital and doctors’ workload. It has lowered the chances of Covid’s spread as well. 

What to learn from Covid-19:

This pandemic has made us identify what elements of life we took for granted. We have learned the hard way that:

  • Health and self-care should not be ignored
  • Cherish family time and social bonds
  • We are more dependent on technology
  • Internet has greatly helped in connectivity and job opportunities
  • Loneliness is daunting
  • Simplicity is better than being luxurious

Conclusion:

Coronavirus has upended traditional funeral and sympathy practices. Using technology and SOPs is the new normal. With new variants emerging one after another, we don’t know when the world be corona-free. But it has surely changed how we see and live our lives. Some call it a blessing in disguise as it has made us value relations, health, and family time.

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