Gray Divorce
Are You Considering A Divorce?
The overall divorce rate in the United States has steadily declined since its peak in the 1970’s and 80’s, but older couples appear to be fighting back against that trend. According to Bowling Green State University (BGSU) sociologists Susan L. Brown and I-Fen Lin, the divorce rate for couples in their 50’s and older more than doubled between 1990 and 2010.
In their study which was done in response to Al and Tipper Gore’s divorce after 40 years of marriage, the researchers discovered that approximately 55 percent of these divorces, often referred to as ‘gray divorces’, were between couples after 20 or more years of marriage.
Give us a call at (909) 992-0188 to speak with a member of our firm today.
Whether you are considering filing for divorce or if your spouse is the one filing, it’s in your best interest to hire an experienced attorney to represent you throughout the divorce process. At Family Law Advocacy Group, our Rancho Cucamonga divorce attorneys understand just how difficult this situation may be and will help you navigate any complications that may arise. Contact us today to speak with a member of our firm.
What is a Gray Divorce?
A gray divorce refers to the increasing trend of couples divorcing later in life, typically after the age of 50. The term comes from the idea that many people in this age group have graying hair. Gray divorces have become more common in recent decades, especially among Baby Boomers, as societal norms around marriage, longevity, and personal fulfillment have evolved.
In fact, the divorce rate for adults over 50 has doubled since the 1990s, while divorce rates for younger couples have declined.
Challenges of Gray Divorce
Divorcing later in life presents unique challenges, including:
- Division of Retirement Assets – Splitting pensions, 401(k)s, and Social Security benefits can significantly impact financial stability.
- Healthcare and Insurance – Losing a spouse’s health insurance can be a major concern, especially before qualifying for Medicare.
- Alimony and Financial Support – If one spouse was financially dependent, long-term or permanent spousal support may be an issue.
- Emotional and Social Impact – Divorce can be emotionally difficult, especially after decades of marriage. Social circles may also change.
- Estate Planning Adjustments – Wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations may need to be updated.
Why Do These Couples Divorce After So Long?
The most common reason fueling the increased number of gray divorces is an empty nest. After spending so many years caring for and raising their children, couples may feel a deep void in their lives once those children leave home. Given the skyrocketing divorce rate, it’s clear that many of these couples found difficulty reconnecting with their spouse after this change in their lives, and chose to seek separation in order to move on.
Are You Prepared For What Comes Next?
If you don’t take time to prepare for what comes after your divorce, you could end up in a difficult situation. In order to prevent that, it’s important to look at:
- Your Children: Talk to your family about the reasons you and your spouse are seeking a divorce. Even though you may see your children as capable young adults, they will forever look at you as their parents, and may not be able to understand what changed to push you two apart. Because children often play a major role in caring for their parents as they get older, you need to keep them informed and involved to prevent them from feeling alienated and hurt.
- Your Healthcare: Many couples receive healthcare through one spouse’s plan, and if you aren’t the spouse providing the insurance you need to make sure you have a plan in place once you are no longer together. You will also need to prepare to hire help as you grow older – many couples take care of each other in old age, and without a spouse to provide the care you may be left to fend for yourself with hired assistance.
- Your Finances: Depending on how you and your spouse have handled your finances, you may have saved up a fairly sizeable retirement fund that will be included during property division. If you don’t take the time to plan out your financial future, you may end up in a difficult financial situation.
Hire A Qualified Lawyer Today
Our Rancho Cucamonga divorce lawyers at Family Law Advocacy Group have spent years representing clients and helping them secure a beneficial outcome to their divorce. Whether you are the one filing for divorce or if you’re the one being served, contact us today to discuss your case with an experienced attorney
Contact our firm today by giving us a call at (909) 992-0188 or by submitting our online form to request a free consultation.
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