It is not uncommon for seniors to remarry after losing a spouse. In fact, over 50% of adults 55+ that lose a husband or wife will end up getting married again.
A remarriage can have all kinds of unexpected implications for the existing family, and newly combined families as a whole.
For example, a new marriage can disrupt any wills, POAs, or estate plans that have already been established. That is why it is crucial for paperwork to be updated on both sides, to avoid any disagreements and bickering over property and assets.
Financials aside, a remarriage of aging parents can have other wide sweeping effects.
For example, it can result in:
Seeing an aging parent remarry can be a difficult thing for a child to accept. Especially if their parents enjoyed a long and happy marriage before the death of a spouse or a divorce. Let’s say one spouse dies after 40 years of marriage. Then, the parent that is still alive meets someone new and decides to get remarried.
This can be tough for a child of the original marriage to come to terms with. They may feel like it is an attempt to replace the lost parent when there is no need for it.
However, consider it from the elderly parent’s point of view, and they may feel like this is their last chance at happiness.
The remarriage of aging parents will result in additional family members, and most likely, a change in some family traditions. Family holidays may have to be altered to include the interests and family members from both sides. This could mean some substantial adjustments and compromise from everyone involved.
For seniors that have lost a spouse or divorced at a late age, they may have undergone considerable lifestyle changes in the period following. The modifications required for going from married to single can be strenuous and even unmanageable at first for older adults. It may involve reworking entire routines and may require some assistance and understanding from family members.
The same is true for the remarriage of an elderly couple. Compromise will be required from both husband and wife to be sure, but compassion and empathy from family members will also be fundamental.
Effort will be imperative from everyone involved, but with a little selflessness and cooperation it can all work out.
Some recommended steps include:Â
Keeping an open mind is the best approach you can possibly take in these situations. Everyone will have different hopes and expectations, it is important to consider all of them.
The new couple will need some time and space to get things organized. It is a good idea to give them privacy and offer help if they need.
Attempting to get to know new family members is an ideal way to open the situation up and discuss all wishes and concerns.
Financials and inheritance will need to be discussed at some point to avoid future disaster. Taking care of this in a calm, organized manner will yield the best results.
With over 20 years experience, Promyse Home Care is a perfect example of an established home care agency that specializes in providing companion care for seniors who are living on their own or recently remarried to keep everyone engaged within the community and offer services in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge.
At Promyse Home Care, we’re here to support your loved one’s journey towards independence at home. Our compassionate team is ready to listen and tailor care that respects their unique needs. Let’s chat about creating a comforting, personalized care experience. Reach out to us for a caring conversation – we’re eager to be part of your family’s story in ensuring the best home care for your loved one.
We service all of Waterloo Region & surrounding areas.
