Why Are Gray Divorce Rates Increasing?

 Posted on July 14,2024 in Divorce

Although the divorce rate in general is on a downward trend, gray divorces, or those for couples over 50, are increasing. Couples who have been married for decades often decide to go their separate ways, leaving their children and grandchildren confused.

Regardless of your age, divorce is rarely easy. Gray divorces often include significant issues that you may not know how to handle. A compassionate, experienced divorce attorney who understands the challenges you face can help make the process easier.

Why Are More Couples Over 50 Getting Divorced?

There are many reasons behind divorce. For couples over 50, some of the most common reasons are:

• Growing apart or bored: People’s values, interests, and goals change over time, sometimes leaving couples bored with each other or feeling disconnected.

• Financial independence: After mortgages are paid off, earnings increase, and savings accumulate, there is less need for two incomes. This can allow one person to be financially stable on his or her own.

• Financial difficulties: Sometimes, financial strain accompanies retirement. In these cases, couples often have disagreements about money or the lack thereof.

• Longer life expectancy: People today live longer than past generations did, which gives them more incentive to leave unfulfilling marriages.

• Empty nest syndrome and retirement: Once the children leave for their own homes and couples retire, they may be forced to spend more time alone together. This can add stress and make existing relationship problems worse.

Additionally divorce does not have the same negative connotations that it once did, making many people more comfortable with deciding to divorce.

What Special Challenges Do Gray Divorces Have?

Many older couples have been together for several years, with children and grandchildren. Although any divorce can have issues, gray divorces often have unique challenges. These include:

• Emotional impacts on the couple and their offspring

• Financial challenges, such as splitting retirement funds, pensions, and assets

• Health insurance issues

• Deciding who will keep the family home and sentimental keepsakes

• Social changes, particularly if the couple has mutual friends

Gray divorce, especially when it comes as a surprise, can leave one spouse feeling lonely, anxious, and depressed. Health problems, such as insomnia and loss of appetite, can also appear. When friends or family members take sides, additional problems can arise.

It is important to understand the challenges you might face during and after a gray divorce. You should seek support when needed and hire a knowledgeable divorce lawyer to help guide you through the legal process.

Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Kane County, IL Divorce Attorney Today

Each attorney at Serrano Hanson has extensive experience handling divorce cases. We know how difficult the process can be, and we understand the special challenges associated with gray divorce. Let us help you protect your interests and overcome those difficulties. If you need a caring Geneva, IL divorce lawyer, call us at 630-844-8781 today.