I'm Scared

She's less concerned with her lifestyle changing, and more fearful of him retiring for a financial reason. Basically, she doesn't want him to retire. She fears they will not have enough money. She also worries about what will happen to her if he dies first.

While money matters are the number-one source of arguments during marriage, calm discussions about money can also be the best way to alleviate such fears.

Talking about the plans in place for retirement income, including life insurance, can ease her mind. Practical planning and open communication are keys to alleviating such fears. If she has not been involved in putting the money aside from a weekly or biweekly paycheck, then she is less confident the money will be there. He needs to have a plan in place and share it with her.

Sitting down and reviewing all possible scenarios with a financial planner (with whom they both feel comfortable) may also be the answer. Knowledge can be very reassuring. If both husband and wife are concerned, or if they started saving for retirement late in the game, he (or she or both) might consider options for other types of jobs that may be part time but will provide that extra income to make them both breathe easier.

In some instances, couples have started businesses together. However, starting a new business is also stressful and may not be the answer if money-related concerns already exist.