If you are over the age of 50 and getting a divorce, you might think this
is a rarity, but the truth is that more and more couples over the age
of 50 are deciding to part ways. This relatively new phenomenon is known
as a “gray divorce.” For the past 20 years, the divorce rate
for those whose hair might be beginning to gray has actually been increasing,
whereas divorce among younger couples is decreasing. So why do so many
couples who have been married for decades decide to pull the plug on their
long-term union?
Reasons For Gray Divorce
Some of the most common reasons why spouses over the age of 50 are headed
for divorce include:
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Growing Apart: For some, there is no real reason they can pinpoint. Instead, they can
only say that they have simply grown apart and no longer connect on any
shared interests.
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Age: Both spouses are over 50, but when one partner begins to act old, it might
make the other feel old, which can serve as an unwelcome and unpleasant reminder.
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Self-Improvement: When two people have spent decades with each other, possibly letting themselves
go or losing sight of who they are, it can cause a rift in the marriage.
All it takes is a spark to motivate them to make the changes they desire
and this often involves meeting someone new.
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Sex: As people age, a plethora of changes take place, including sexual appetites.
If one spouse’s desires dwindle while the other’s remains
the same, it can sink a marriage.
Coping With Gray Divorce
Learning to cope with divorce after the age of 50 is different than coping
with it at a younger age. Here are some tips on how to deal with this
major change:
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Get Help: There is nothing wrong with asking for help, especially since divorce
is often an overwhelming emotional experience. Find a therapist, divorce
coach, or even a support group. This kind of support can help immensely.
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Consider Alternatives: Your divorce does not have to go through litigation. Consider a less contentious
method, such as mediation or collaborative divorce. It will save you time,
money, and heartache.
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Accept that Life Will Change: Divorcing later in life means you are outside of your prime income-earning
years and might need to delay or alter your retirement plans. It is important
to face the music now rather than be unprepared later.
Houston Divorce Attorneys Supporting You Through a Divorce
Deciding to go through with a divorce is not easy, but sometimes necessary.
If you are going through a divorce, it is crucial to retain the services
of a skilled divorce attorney. At the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny,
we are dedicated to providing the fierce legal advocacy you need to successfully
complete the divorce process and protect your interests.
Contact our office today at (713) 936-2300 to schedule a consultation.