Mom's in Love Again

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--Recognize your parent's right to happiness. "You have to separate yourself from your parent emotionally and realize your parent is an adult who can make these decisions," says Maria Mancusi, a family therapist based in Alexandria, Va.

--Remember that your relationship with your parent is unique. "Don't view your parent's new spouse as a parental figure or as replacing your role," says psychologist Susan Newman. "Your parent is always your parent, and you're their child."

--Deal with the money. Whether out of concern for your parent's retirement or for your financial future, talk openly about costs and estates. At the same time, financial planners caution, avoid thinking in terms of your parent's squandering "your" inheritance.

--Seek help. Depending on the issue, consult a financial planner, a geriatric-care manager, a family counselor or a lawyer. A third party can help families deal with problems before they become crises.