The closest ties people have before marriage is with their families, and even long time friends understand people are committed to helping their family members in times of need. Parents are living longer than ever, so they often need assistance from their children when illness strikes. Whether married or single, this takes a toll of time on any relationship. The son or daughter must find time to accompany their parent to the doctor's office or other medical facility, and this interferes with their personal relationship.
At this time, a person requires an understanding spouse or significant other who will help ease the burden for them. A parent who needs full time care will often stress a relationship, and the couple must find a way to spend quality time together. Failure to create these times of bonding can ruin the relationship, even if the couple has been together for decades.
