Comprehensive, Effective

Family Solutions

Common causes for gray divorce

On Behalf of | Jun 16, 2022 | Divorce

In the past, divorce was thought to be a “young people’s problem.” However, in recent years, cases of gray divorce (divorce among people 60 years of age and older) are becoming much more common.

There are more than a few reasons that gray divorce has become more common. Understand what these reasons are here.

People are living longer

Many people are living to age 84 or older today. At 65, some older couples are coming to the realization that the person they married isn’t someone they want to spend the rest of their lives with. This often occurs when they retire, reevaluate their priorities and begin to realize they have drifted apart.

It’s not as much of a taboo topic

Did you know that until 1969, a divorce would only be granted by the court if it was possible to prove fault, such as infidelity or abuse? Today, though, there’s no need to prove fault to file for divorce, and it’s more accepted in society. While those from the Baby Boomer generation may have avoided divorce in the past because it “just wasn’t done,” this is no longer the case. With divorce more accessible and less taboo, more and more older couples are choosing this path.

They don’t have the same goals for life after children

Many people focus on raising a family for many years. Unfortunately, focusing on the kids often results in the parents drifting apart. Those who don’t have the same plans may find that divorce is the best option to live the life they want when all their children have moved away.

Gray divorce and your options

Filing for gray divorce isn’t as stressful as it may seem. The process does involve some things that must be decided, but once the divorce decree is granted, couples can begin living the life they want in their Golden Years.

findlaw-network