United Kingdom, March 30 -- Ron Howard thinks that "problem-solving" is the "key" to a successful marriage.

The 71-year-old director tied the knot with Cheryl Howard in June 1975 and as they approach their golden wedding, admitted that being able to address and work their way through various problems that crop up is why they are still together all these years later.

He told People: "I think the whole key is learning how to problem solve, learning how to communicate and beginning to trust that you as a couple, you're good at solving this stuff."

The Academy Award-winning star- who has Bryce, 44, twins Jocelyn Carlyle and Paige Carlyle, 40, and son Reed , 37 with Cheryl - added that while there may come time in a marriage where neither p...