Gray Divorce
Research findings documented in the Journals of Gerontology in September 2022, has been identified that over 33% of individuals undergoing divorce proceedings in the United States are aged 50 or older.
Analysis of Pew Research data from 2017 reveals a noteworthy trend, indicating that the incidence of divorce subsequent to reaching the age of 50 experienced an almost twofold increase during the period spanning from 1990 to 2015.
Moreover, a study published in the June 2020 issue of the Journal of Family Issues saw a discernible shift in attitudes among individuals aged 50 and above. Specifically, the investigation realized a growing inclination towards a more supportive stance on divorce during the temporal interval extending from 1994 to 2012 within this demographic cohort.
This time may seem scary, but this is the time to find out who YOU are.
Gray divorce refers to a divorce involving individuals who are 50 years of age or older. Gray divorces have increased almost 50% in the past ten years. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, adults ages 55 to 64 have the highest number of divorces among married adults over age 20.
COMMON REASONS FOR A GRAY DIVORCE
For decades, gray divorce rates have been on the rise in the US and around the world, including Japan, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and India, proving that gray divorce is an international phenomena. Researchers predict that in 2030, gray divorce rates will have tripled. So, why are adults aged 50 and older getting divorced?
Abuse. If either party suffers from physical, mental, or emotional abuse, they may decide to pursue a divorce. Having a controlling or demeaning partner
Addiction. If either spouse struggles with porn, alcohol, gambling, or substance abuse issues, their addiction can cause a strain on the marriage. Because of their addiction, they may waste marital funds, lie, or alienate their spouse, which can often lead to frustrations and divorce.
An increased desire for happiness. In the past, couples may have felt pressure to stay together regardless of how happy they were in their marriage. People, especially women, are also finding fulfillment outside of their families and marriages; thus, when couples grow apart or feel unhappy, they no longer feel the need to stick it out but choose to believe they will find more pleasure and contentment in their next stage of life.
Empty nest syndrome. As kids grow up and leave the nest (home), older couples may struggle to connect or adapt to life without their children in the home. Older couples may argue more, discover they no longer have a lot in common, or lose interest in things they previously enjoyed once their children leave, which can cause tension and lead to divorce.
Financial differences. Among the leading causes of divorce for couples of any age, money-related issues can often lead to a gray divorce. Whether they disagree on how to spend money, argue about lost investments, or disagree on their budget, older couples who aren’t on the same page financially may argue or feel unheard in their relationship, which can lead to divorce.
Growing apart or falling out of love. As people grow older, they change, which can sometimes mean they want different things out of life. As couples grow and change as individuals and together, they may grow apart or lose their spark.
Infidelity. After either party emotionally or physically cheats on their partner, their marriage may suffer because of the loss of trust and the betrayal.
Lack of intimacy. If either party doesn’t feel satisfied when it comes to physical or emotional intimacy and their partner refuses to try or compromise, they may file for divorce.
Less stigma. Today, there is less stigma surrounding divorce, which empowers many older couples (especially women) to file for divorce.
Predictability. Sometimes, older couples may settle into a routine. Doing the same day-to-day activities or having the same annual plans can make a couple’s relationship feel predictable or stagnant. If either party feels like their relationship lacks spontaneity, they consider divorce.