DIVORCE ON THE RISE FOR THOSE 50+

For those over 50 years old, divorce has been on the rise over the past few years as time goes by and generations get older. Most times couples have simply grown apart over the years and looking for a new chapter for their later years in life. While it may be stressful, it's nothing to be ashamed of as statistics continue to show couples parting in their later years.

Divorce in the Later Years

Aging Americans

Americans are aging at a dramatic rate. Those now over 50 are expected to live longer than any other previous generation. Boomers are the fastest growing age group in the U.S. Americans 65 and older represent 14.5% of our population, and that number is expected to rise to 20% by 2030 when the youngest boomers turn 65.

Long Lives - Long Marriages

Along with long lives comes long marriages. Long marriages though great for some people, may not be great for others. Research shows the divorce rate for U.S. adults aged 50 and older has doubled since the 1990’s. What’s contributing to these divorces?

Divorce as an Opportunity

Divorce after many years of marriage may represent an opportunity to get out of a marriage that has gone stale or become abusive. People often stay in a bad marriage because of the children. When the children have moved on to lives of their own, parents feel freer to leave a marriage. Knowing the odds are they may live for many more years, they aren’t willing to stay in a bad situation. As most women have careers of their own, they no longer need to rely on a husband for financial stability. For both women and men divorce is often seen as freedom from conflict and a new lease on life.

Risks to Consider

Change often comes with risk. Divorce often requires many lifestyle changes.

Division of a longtime household can be complex. An experienced mediator can help you evaluate your situation and lead you to a mutually satisfying resolution. Here are a few issues to consider:

Determine how much money each partner needs for financial stability. Often one spouse has a higher income than the other. If the loss of the higher income puts a financial burden on the spouse with the lower income, spousal support may be a possibility.

Home ownership represents a valuable asset. Partners may want sell and divide equity or one partner may want to stay in the house.

Often in marriage finances are shared. How will you split them up? Retirement accounts, social security, health insurance, investment accounts, properties and debt may all be part of your marriage.

All issues of divorce require careful consideration and sometimes couples need an unbiased third party mediator to help resolve the issues. After spending a lifetime together, wouldn’t it be better to end it positively? 

About A Fair Way Mediation

A Fair Way Mediation Center offers a relaxed, compassionate atmosphere in an informal setting that encourages a calm and objective approach. This is a safe space that avoids the stress and embarrassment that courtroom procedures can inject into any divorce or separation. All couples are welcome, including traditional or same sex families.