While the divorce rates are trending lower in many age groups, divorce among those who are over the age of 50 has increased significantly since 1990. This is according to research conducted at Bowling Green University, which shows that the rate of divorce in that age group doubled between 1990 and 2014. Dissolving a marriage after the age of 50 is known as a gray divorce, and there are several reasons why it is occurring.
First, the divorce process can often be expensive, and older Americans are better off financially. This means that they can better handle the cost of ending a marriage. Second, longer life spans have left today’s 50-year-olds to question whether they want to be married for up to 30 more years if they don’t find it to be satisfying. Finally, changing attitudes toward marriage are allowing older Americans to overcome the stigma that has been traditionally attached to divorce.
In the past, someone may have been considered a good spouse if they could provide financially for a family or if they kept the house clean. Many Americans today want a marriage with someone who they see as their best friend and confidant. If the personal relationship isn’t fulfilling in every way, older folks may feel that it is better to move on as opposed to staying in a marriage that isn’t meeting their needs.
Regardless of their ages, people who are experiencing irreconcilable differences in their marriages may find it worthwhile to file for divorce. A family law attorney can often assist a divorcing spouse in negotiating a comprehensive settlement agreement that addresses the applicable legal issues such as property division.