The funeral profession is experiencing a period of transformation — shaped by shifts in demographics, technology and consumer behaviors. Funeral professionals must stay informed about emerging trends and statistics to adapt their services effectively and meet the evolving needs of families. From the rise of mobile phone usage to Artificial Intelligence (AI), understanding key statistics can help funeral homes stay ahead of the curve.
The Impact of Increasing Phone Usage
In 2024, 91% of U.S. adults owned a smartphone. Mobile devices offer a critical connection between consumers and businesses, with usage continuing to grow year by year. This statistic underscores the importance of having a mobile-friendly website and offering services that are easily accessible on smartphones. Families, often dealing with overwhelming emotions and time-sensitive decisions, may now turn to their smartphones for quick and convenient access to funeral services and support. To remain relevant and responsive, funeral service providers should start prioritizing a mobile-friendly approach, ensuring that their websites and services are easily accessible on smartphones.
In a previous blog we wrote "Real Stories of Text-Based Aftercare", we referenced that there will be a predicted 5.9 billion text messages in 2025 - reaffirming that mobile-phone usage is taking over how we function as a society. This means that brands such as Elevia, will continue to see future success due to tailoring their busienss services to the new digital landscape we are seeing as a society.
the rising use of social media
With over 240 million people in the United States engaging with platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, social media has become an essential part of daily life for many people. These platforms play a crucial role in how individuals connect, share personal experiences and interact with brands.
Social media offers a space where people can express themselves, stay informed and engage with both friends and companies on more personal level. It has transformed from a means of communication and social sharing to a useful tool that allows your funeral home to interact with people in meaningful ways.
One of the most significant impacts of this growth is how social media has become a vital resource for consumers conducting research. Three out of five consumers use social media to stay up to date with brands, products and services. This shift indicates the importance of social media as a primary touchpoint for discovering new products and services, reading reviews and seeking recommendations. Businesses that understand this trend can leverage these platforms to enhance their visibility and connect with potential customers.
Homesteaders offers access to partnerships and resources that can help funeral professionals harness opportunities to connect with their communities via social media. Contact your Homesteaders account executive to learn more.
Online reviews: Determining conSumer decisions
Roughly 92% of consumers trust online reviews to assist in determining whether to do business with a company. This statistic highlights the importance of reviews in the decision-making process. Positive feedback from previous customers can significantly influence potential buyers, creating a sense of trust and confidence in a brand or service.
Encouraging satisfied customers to leave online reviews, responding to feedback respectfully and addressing concerns quickly can help maintain a strong online presence. Businesses that consistently provide excellent customer service and value will naturally foster positive reviews, which can ultimately lead to increased customer trust and success in attracting new business. Elevia is the ideal solution for improving your online reviews, with 97% of its partners ranking among the top-rated and most reviewed firms on Google.
our Aging Population in the united states
One of the most important long-term shifts impacting funeral professionals is the aging population. By 2030, one in five Americans will be over the age of 65, signaling a steady increase in the need for end-of-life services. As the elderly population grows, businesses across sectors will need to adjust to accommodate a higher volume of clients seeking specialized services. This demographic shift also creates a greater need for solutions specifically designed for seniors, such as healthcare services, financial planning and accessible resouces focused on preneed programs.
AI is Transforming Industries and Shaping the Future
65% of individuals report using AI regularly, according to a 2024 survey conducted by Mckinsey & Company, highlighting its growing presence in daily life. As AI continues to evolve, its influence is expected to expand, providing businesses with new opportunities for innovation and improved operational efficiency. From personalized shopping experiences to smarter customer service, AI technologies are becoming an integral part of the consumer journey, pushing businesses to innovate and stay ahead of customer expectations. For companies that embrace AI, the potential for streamlining operations, automating tasks, and driving data-driven decision-making is immense.
By adopting AI, businesses can not only enhance their competitiveness but also meet the increasing demand for more personalized, efficient, and accessible services. Artificial-Intelligence will continue to shape industries, and companies that integrate these technologies are better positioned to capitalize on the opportunities of tomorrow.
As funeral service continues to evolve, understanding the factors driving consumer behavior and emerging trends is essential. The increasing reliance on mobile devices, the influence of social media and the importance of online reviews underscore the need for businesses to embrace digital tools and establish a strong online presence.
At the same time, demographic shifts, such as the aging population and the evolving use of AI across all industries, highlight the changing consumer preferences that require flexible, forward-thinking approaches. By staying informed and adapting to these evolving trends, businesses can better meet the needs of their clients, ensuring they provide compassionate, relevant and accessible services well into the future.
