7 Reasons Not to Retire, Part 4

Here's part 4 of a series from US News and World Report that gives seven reasons you shouldn't retire. Today's reason:

Your marriage may profit from a little less togetherness.

Their summary of this issue:

After surviving decades of married life, you thought retirement would be like a second honeymoon. No more early-morning alarm bells or long commutes to spoil the mood. But guess again. Retirement often creates friction between married couples, weakening even the strongest ties.

That has created a trend known as "gray divorce." With Americans staying healthier longer, the retirement years are stretched out, giving couples even more time together. Many refuse to settle for retirement with marital discord. The divorce rate among Americans older than 65 grew from 6.7 percent in March 2000 to 8 percent four years later, according to U.S. census figures.

But that doesn't mean all hope is lost. There are plenty of options to making sure retirement doesn't drive a wedge between husband and wife. Sharing hobbies is one way that helps couples forge new bonds. Gradual or staggered retirement is another way to ease into the new lifestyle, giving couples time to settle into life without work. Travel also helps keeps retirement relationships strong.

Ha! Did my wife write this article? ;-)

This is uncharted territory for me and I'm not sure what to think about it -- or how it will impact my wife and me. Is there anyone out there with experience in this area? If so, please share your wisdom with us in the comments below. I'm sure there are lots of people with the same questions I have on this issue.

Click here to read part 5 of this series.

Click here to read part 1 of this series.

Comments

[Arlene]

My husband and I are - thankfully! - still happily married even in retirement. I personally believe having a house with a yard is really important. I have a sewing room and my husband has a workship in the basement. We can both keep gently busy if we choose to, without being up each other's backside. I know folks who have sold their house and moved into an apartment, and are about ready to kill each other.