Baby Boomer couples are breaking up after many years of marriage. This trend, known as “gray divorce,” shows no signs of slowing down. There are several complex factors contributing to the rise of gray divorce. Factors like becoming empty nesters, being in debt and the desire for independence may all play a role in the increased likelihood of divorce among Baby Boomers
For some older individuals, the decision to seek a divorce stems from a sense of estrangement, while for others, ongoing abuse or deception is the driving force behind the decision.
The rise of gray divorce
Gray divorce occurs when couples who have been married for many years decide to divorce after the age of 50. Gray divorce first became popular in the 1970s. By the 1990s, 8.7% of marriages between adults over 50 ended in divorce. By 2019, the percentage had risen to 36% and in the years since, that rate has more than tripled.
The years can sometimes cause a relationship to drift apart. When a sense of discontentment or boredom permeates a marriage, it becomes impossible to reawaken the flame that was once there. Conflicts between couples can arise due to a variety of situations.
- The kids have grown and flown the nest, leaving the two of you alone as a couple for the first time in many years.
- You can’t agree on financial matters. If one of you is a saver and the other tends to spend a lot, tensions may arise.
- An addiction to drugs or alcohol can quickly derail a marriage.
- One partner refuses to tolerate abuse from the other any longer.
- The betrayal of infidelity can destroy what was once a perfect marriage.
When you find yourself in one or more of these situations, you may feel alone. Handling a divorce can be difficult and painful, which is why it is wise to seek legal assistance with the process.