"GREY DIVORCE" IS RISING

The Rise of Divorce Among Older Adults

In recent decades, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of people divorcing later in life, a phenomenon often referred to as "grey divorce." This trend has significant implications for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

Factors Contributing to Grey Divorce

• Changing Social Norms: Attitudes toward marriage and divorce have evolved, leading to greater acceptance of divorce at any age.

• Longer Life Expectancy: As people live longer, they may seek to redefine their lives and relationships in later years. As in my Pocket Guidebook to Divorce, all relationships have a beginning, a middle and an end.

• Empty Nest Syndrome: Couples often find themselves drifting apart after their children leave home, prompting some to reconsider their marriage.

• Financial Independence: Many older adults, especially women, have greater financial independence, making it easier to leave an unsatisfactory marriage.

• Personal Fulfillment: Individuals may prioritize personal happiness and fulfillment over maintaining a long-term relationship.

Impacts of Gray Divorce

• Emotional Consequences: Divorce can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety, particularly for those who are not accustomed to being single.

• Financial Implications: Divorcing later in life can significantly impact retirement savings and financial stability.

• Family Dynamics: Gray divorce can alter family structures, affecting relationships with children and grandchildren.

• Social Changes: Older adults may need to navigate new social circles and dating landscapes, which can be challenging.

Support and Resources

For those considering or going through a grey divorce, support systems, as outlined in my Pocket Guidebook to Divorce are crucial. These will primarily include:

• Therapy or Counselling: Professional help can assist individuals in processing their emotions and making informed decisions.

• Support Groups: Connecting with others who are experiencing or whom have already been through similar situations . Finding those who agree with your course of action is paramount.

• Financial Advisors: Later in life you will need to source financial guidance if you've never worked, have no income other than that provided by your partner or have complex joint investment structures needing to be divided. Newly acquired assets post-divorce and future financial plans need attention before the divorce is absolute.

Conclusion

The trend of divorcing later in life reflects the large number of marriages where one or both partners spent the majority of their life living in a situation they had grown out of or just loathed staying in. Broader societal changes and individual desires for happiness and fulfillment now hold importance and are recognised as a good enough reason to divorce. Going through a "grey divorce" will still be a challenging transition, still manifesting the same devastating consequences to the family structure and lifestyle for some. In the end thought, many find that it leads to new opportunities and a renewed sense of self.