Navigating midlife finances: Turning challenges into strategic opportunities

Financial Options Group adviser Amy Whitehouse outlines the key dynamics impacting “sandwich generation” savers and investors…

Midlife is often considered one of the most pivotal stages in a person’s financial journey. Typically spanning from the early 40s to the late 50s or early 60s, these years are often filled with personal, professional, and financial ups and downs.

For many, this period also marks a shift in financial mindset. Some individuals aim to accelerate their savings and investment planning, while others seek more strategic ways to use the wealth they’ve accumulated – such as through property investment.

It’s no surprise then that many people choose to engage a professional financial adviser for the first time during midlife. Particularly in turbulent times, having an experienced ally to help chart a new course and offer expert guidance can make a big difference to both monetary outcomes and peace of mind.

Please read on below as we take a closer look at the dynamics of midlife finances…

Stuck in the Middle with You

Why is midlife such a financially challenging time?

Because everything seems to happen at once. You may be earning more than ever, but managing your finances likely feels more complex. Perhaps you’re beginning to plan for retirement, while still tackling current responsibilities like paying off a mortgage or supporting children through school or university.

Midlife often involves balancing multiple priorities, such as household expenses, raising children, and caring for ageing parents. It’s no wonder many feel “stuck in the middle,” with financial demands on all sides. It certainly makes sense as to why people in this age bracket are referred to as the “sandwich generation”.

In 2025, the financial landscape feels particularly uncertain – rising living costs, market volatility, and global disruptions all add to the pressure. With some even dipping into pensions to cover shortfalls, confidence in long-term financial security can waver.

However, midlife also brings financial opportunities. From pension top-ups and smarter investing to tax planning and affordable insurance options, taking action now can set you up for greater security and freedom in the years to come.

This is also an ideal time to check that your financial strategy aligns with your long-term goals. Working with a professional financial adviser can help you take a holistic approach – one that considers all aspects of your financial life and supports you in making confident, well-informed decisions.

Aspects of midlife financial planning which may be considered by you and your adviser include:

Retirement planning. Evaluating pension pots, contribution levels, expected retirement age, and lifestyle expectations, taking any necessary action to ensure you’re on track.

Protection. Assessing insurance needs, such as protecting your mortgage, life and critical illness cover, income protection and any policies that may be used as an inheritance tax strategy.

Debt management. Reviewing mortgages, credit cards, and loans with the aim of reducing interest payments, improving cash flow, and planning for debt freedom.

Investments. Ensuring investments align with risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. Objectives include growing wealth, combatting inflation over the long term, and making sure your money is working hard.

Estate planning. Ensuring you have wills and powers of attorney in place. Reviewing inheritance tax strategies to mitigate potential IHT where possible and ensure assets are distributed efficiently and according to your wishes.

Caring for elderly parents/care costs. Anticipating care needs, understanding funding options, and integrating potential expenses into long-term plans.

Lifestyle and budgeting. Planning for discretionary spending like holidays, school fees, or home upgrades to maintain quality of life without derailing financial goals.

What are your midlife financial concerns and objectives? If you would like more information, or to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with a member of our advice team, contact us on 0161 764 9944 or email contact@financialopts.co.uk.

Meet the Adviser

Amy Whitehouse

With many years' experience in the financial services industry, Amy previously worked for a Small Self-Administered Scheme (SSAS) pension provider and holds a BA (Hons) in International Business Management. She joined our team in 2019 as a Client Services Executive before qualifying as a financial adviser in 2021.

As a top-level financial professional, she takes a client-focussed approach, seeing every client individually and putting their needs first.

The value of pensions and investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested. Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change. Estate planning is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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