University studies and discussions between students tend to focus on the young family—primarily early marriage years. And yet these years are fleeting. To understand marriage and family we must develop our awareness of challenges and opportunities common to the aging family.

As noted elsewhere couples tend to focus strongly on their children's development and activities rather intensely during the child-rearing years. But the couples who focus too exclusively there lose the passion and joy of their own marriage.

We will discuss challenges associated with the "sandwich generation"—adults who find themselves caring for both children and aging parents. We will also examine the retired couple and the challenges and opportunities commonly associated with such significant realignment of time and energies. We will also consider the losses associated with the aging family, including the loss of adult children, health, independence and one's spouse.