What is the primary goal of preparing the body for viewing?

The primary goal of preparing the body for viewing is to provide a dignified and natural appearance for the bereaved. This approach focuses on honoring the deceased and helping the surviving family and friends cope with their loss by offering a comforting, respectful presentation. A well-prepared body can facilitate a more positive experience for the mourners, allowing them to connect with their loved one in a way that feels appropriate and respectful.

While enhancing the physical features of the deceased may be a part of the process, it is not the main objective. The aim is not merely to improve aesthetics, but to ensure that the deceased looks peaceful and at rest, which can help in the grieving process. Although ensuring the body is free of odors and enabling longer preservation are important aspects of embalming and body preparation, they serve more functional purposes rather than directly addressing the emotional needs of the bereaved. Thus, providing a dignified and natural appearance remains the central focus in body preparation for viewings.