You might have been married for 30 years or so, but that does not mean a divorce is out of the question. These days more couples are getting divorced in their 50s than any other age group.
A report from the U.S Census Department in 2021 indicates that 34.9% of couples who divorced that year were 55 years of age or older. People often use the term “gray divorce” to refer to these couples who divorce when they are 50 or over.
What is fueling gray divorces?
Dubbed the “Gray Divorce Revolution” by researchers at Bowling Green University in Ohio, this trend is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Some of the reasons for this phenomenon include:
- Drifting apart: This feeling can slowly creep into a marriage as the years go by until one or both spouses realize that they are unhappy and decide to break up.
- Empty nest syndrome: Now that the kids are grown and on their own, some couples see no reason to stay together,
- Financial disagreements: Perhaps one spouse is a saver, and one is a spender. Together, they have never seen eye to eye on financial issues. This is enough to drive a wedge between them that can lead to divorce.
- Abuse: When one person tires of the emotional or physical abuse they receive from their spouse, they may decide to leave for their own safety and sanity.
Whatever the reason, if you are in your 50s or older and are going through a divorce seeking guidance can help you navigate through the journey.