What is thanatology?
Although the term embalming may automatically make you think of Egypt and mummies, it has little to do with what is known as modern embalming.
Practical thanatology, also known as ‘modern embalming’, is an independent form of hygienic care for the deceased for open lying in state, i.e. the temporary preservation of the body - even under extreme conditions, without refrigeration and without a separating disc. This humanises the relationship between the living and the dead. The term thanatology (Greek θανατολογία, from θάνατος, thánatos, ‘death’ and -logy, ‘science’) refers to the science of death, dying and burial.
How does the thanatologist help?
The work of the thanatologist enables a well-groomed, natural appearance of the deceased. This positive appearance ensures that respect for the deceased is maintained and relatives can bid them farewell in peace and dignity. This is safe even if the body is laid out at home for several days.
After thanatological care, the burial period of eight days that must be observed in Bremen and Lower Saxony can be extended with the approval of the health authority.
The thanatologist can also provide restorative and cosmetic treatment for the open burial of accident victims.
For repatriations abroad, embalming is often required by law, which the thanatologist also carries out.
