well, maybe not according to Maria Schriver. Four kids and 25 years later they are calling it quits. Seems like more and more people are getting divorced later in their married careers. Yes, "careers", after-all, marriage is a lot of work. Most recent stats show that 37.7% of all marriages won't make their 30th anniversary. ....like Arnie and Maria. More and more people over 40 are getting divorced. Because of this, typically, there are children involved so the family dynamic is changing. It's not so weird to have step-sisters and half brothers and even more than a couple of parents.
Along with the changing family dynamic, one might experience different needs for couples and many of them are financially based. Amongst the considerations is the kids from previous relationships, age differentials and staggering retirement considerations, current expenses and who's kid is going to be supported through their education and to what extent? With a potential 'brady bunch' financial commitment, retirement plans may seem to be....well....non-plans.
So what's the message here? Planning, planning, planning. I think it's important that the whole family unit is on the same page. It's also helpful if "Mom" and "Dad" tell the kids their plans...and why! The conversation could go a little like, "Son, I can't pay for all of your education but I can contribute. If I pay for all of it then I can't afford to retire until I'm 75 or I'll have to live in your basement in my old age." I think then, the kids 'get it' and the parents have set the boundaries and expectations. Withe the potential of a large family dynamic and many needs to consider.........the conversation should be key.
