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The rise in the gray divorce: Factors contributing to this phenomenon

On Behalf of | Dec 7, 2018 | Divorce

Many marriages in Texas and throughout the rest of the country eventually end in divorce. According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the U.S. divorce. However, the rate at which those over the age of 50 divorce is even higher. Time states that nearly 25 percent of those going through a divorce are in this age group.

Why more baby boomers are divorcing

One of the reasons why many baby boomers are divorcing is because they are on their second or third marriages and these unions are typically less stable than first marriages. However, for many of these couples, the decision to divorce comes after they had been married for several decades. According to Time, of the elderly couples getting divorced, more than half have been married for more than 20 years.

A recent study, entitled Gray Divorce: A Growing Risk Regardless of Class or Education, suggests that since no-fault divorce is now available in all 50 states, unhappy older couples see no reason to stay together once they have finished raising their children. By claiming a no-fault divorce, baby boomers can easily go their separate ways.

The rise in the number of older couples getting divorced may also be influenced by the fact that more and more women are becoming financially independent. Due to this, many women are realizing that they do not have to stay in a marriage that makes them unhappy for the sake of financial stability.

Surviving the divorce process

While divorcing later in life is the right decision for many couples, it is still associated with consequences, especially financial ones. According to Time, older divorced couples tend to have about 20 percent of the wealth that older married couples have. To protect themselves financially during the property division process and throughout other aspects of the divorce process, CBS News suggests that divorcing couples do the following:

  • Prepare themselves emotionally and physical for the stress the divorce process can bring
  • Stay healthy by getting enough sleep, exercising and eating nourishing foods
  • Work out hypothetical scenarios relating to financial outcomes to become fully prepared for what the future may hold
  • Remember that the pain they are experiencing now is only temporary and that the future holds great things

Those in the middle of getting a divorce should also keep in mind that they do not have to endure the process alone. If you and your spouse are contemplating the prospect of dissolving your marriage, turn to an attorney who can ensure your best interests are protected throughout the entire process.