Abstract
Longtime stepfamilies and later-life re-couplers with adult children from previous relationships are a growing demographic. Legal default assumptions are designed for younger first-time families, not for aging families or stepfamilies. However, for stepcouples who plan, and who document their wishes, the legal landscape allows for later-life stepcouples to exercise choice and create individualized alternatives. This article addresses normal challenges created by stepfamily structure that impact later-life “blended families” in three areas: health and end-of-life decision making, later-life financial management, and inheritance plans that consider both the current partner and children of previous relationships. Throughout, this article addresses the importance of using a stepfamily lens, not a first-time family lens.