If you are thinking about ending your marriage as an older adult, it is essential to understand that many others find themselves in your position. In fact, there has been an increase in the number of gray divorces in recent years as more older adults have chosen to move on from failed marriages instead.
Whether you want to file for a divorce because of incompatibility, infidelity, or abuse, it is never too late to leave a dysfunctional marriage behind and begin building a brighter future.
Statistics on gray divorces
The Census Bureau provides data on older adults who have gone through the divorce process. According to their statistics, Census data from 2016 shows that 39% of those between the ages of 65 and 74 have ended a marriage, and 24% of those 75 and older have divorced. In addition, statistics from 2016 show that 43% of those between 55 and 64 have divorced at some point.
Reasons behind gray divorces
The Census Bureau connects marital instability among baby boomers with the trend of rising divorce rates among those 50 and over. Divorces among people over the age of 50 have continued to increase since the 1990s. Sometimes, marriages break down due to an affair, but other factors can affect older married couples. For example, some marriages fall apart because of health challenges, a spouse’s inability to take care of themselves, or retirement changing the nature of a relationship.
If you want to end your marriage at a later point in life, it is vital to take steps to safeguard your future and make the transition easier. For additional guidance during this challenging time, it may be in your best interest to seek out the services of a family law attorney so you can move through the divorce with ease and enjoy your retirement.