Retirement is a huge milestone, but it involves more than just quitting your job. It’s about starting a new chapter with the person you’ve spent your entire life with.
And, while the majority of couples save for retirement for years, very few discuss what their actual retirement will entail on a daily, emotional, and financial level.
This next phase brings freedom, but it also brings change. The best way to move through it together? Schedule a date, and have some honest conversations before you get there.
Here’s what that might look like:
1. What does a good day in retirement look like for each of us?
Sure, you might be dreaming of lazy mornings, unstructured afternoons, and more time with family. But your partner might be eyeing volunteer roles, travel plans, or a second act in part-time work.
Retirement doesn’t have to look the same for both of you, but understanding each other’s retirement goals will help you build a shared rhythm and avoid mismatched expectations.
This isn’t just about logistics. It’s about identity and meaning. Retirement can shift your sense of purpose in ways that are worth exploring together.
2. How do we feel about spending now that the paychecks have stopped?
This is a big one. You’ve spent your whole life saving, and now… you’re supposed to start spending it? Couples don’t always feel the same way about it, and it can feel like flipping a switch.
One of you might feel totally at ease using your savings. The other might freeze every time you talk about travel or big expenses, even if you can afford it.
Having a clear plan (and understanding what “enough” really means to each of you) can go a long way in helping both partners feel more confident with this transition.
3. How are we going to spend our time together and separately?
A kiss on the cheek and a “see you after work” suddenly becomes: we’re together… all the time. That could be a great thing, or a source of friction. (“I had no idea you planned on lounging around watching the Food Network all day!”)
Talk about what your routines might look like, how much together time feels good, and whether you each want your own hobbies, volunteer gigs, or downtime.
This is also a good opportunity to check in emotionally. When you step away from a career, especially one that has defined your identity, it can take time to find your footing again.
4. What’s our plan for health and long-term care?
This might not be the most enjoyable topic, but it is one of the most important.
Healthcare tends to become a bigger expense in retirement, and it’s full of unknowns. Now is the time to talk about how you’ll cover regular medical costs, what kind of care you’d want in the future, and whether long-term care insurance fits your situation.
Making sure your financial plan is built to weather the unexpected can bring peace of mind to both of you.
5. Does our current financial plan still make sense?
Just because your plan made sense five years ago doesn’t mean it’s still the right fit today.
Before or during retirement, it’s smart to revisit things like:
- When and how you’ll draw income
- How your investments are positioned
- What happens if one of you needs extra care or support
- And whether your estate plan still reflects your wishes
This is the time to look at the big picture and ask: Is this strategy still supporting the life we want to live?
This Isn’t Just a Financial Milestone—It’s a Relationship Shift, Too
Couples who take the time to discuss these issues with one another have better expectations and fewer surprises when they retire. That doesn’t mean you have to agree on everything—but it helps to be aligned, and to know how you’ll navigate changes together.
At Falbo Wealth Management, we help couples build retirement strategies that reflect their real lives, not just the numbers. If you’re planning for retirement (or already there), we’d love to help you feel more confident about what comes next.
Schedule a complimentary consultation to make sure your plan supports the future you’re building together.
This material has been edited with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools. The information presented is based on sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of publication. This material is for educational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of the author, presenter, or affiliated organizations. It should not be construed as investment, tax, legal, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation before making any decisions.