Every big transition in life can reshape family dynamics and expectations, and retirement is no different. One person’s retirement doesn’t happen in a vacuum — it will send ripple effects through the whole family.

As a newly minted retiree, you may have already planned out your vision for how and where you want to spend your newfound freedom — or you may have no idea what you want to do yet.

Or as a family member, you may have preconceptions about what your loved one’s retirement could mean for you, too. Does it mean more or less time together? And what does that relationship look like as a result?

An open dialogue helps everyone understand each other’s plans, hopes, emotions and expectations surrounding this big change and move ahead together.