Older married people do not have to stay married just because they have been together for 30, 40 or even 50 years. These days, there are more so-called “gray divorce” cases in the U.S. than ever before, though the term was invented around 2004.
Everyone who files for divorce does so for their own reasons. For older people, the reasons may be the same as anyone else’s, or they may be fairly unique to gray divorce. Here are five common causes of divorce among people over 50 in the Lincoln area.
Financial problems
Financial difficulties are a common cause of divorce in all age groups. For older people, the prospect of not being able to afford a comfortable retirement can cause friction. The fact that married women are now more financially independent than they used to be also encourages many of them to consider other options than staying in a marriage that isn’t working.
Infidelity
Cheating is not just something married people in their 20s and 30s do. For some, their spouse’s constant infidelity over the decades may have finally taken them past the breaking point. Marriage counseling has not worked and the spouse has not changed. Divorce is the only option left.
Longer life expectancy
Modern medicine has increased both our longevity and quality of life. Say you are in your late 50s and in good health. Would you prefer to stay married to your current spouse for the next 20 years or longer, or start over on your own?
Growing apart
Many times, there is no specific incident or problem that triggers divorce. The spouses simply feel as if they no longer in love, or that their relationship is no longer satisfying them. When this happens, it’s time to end it.
In gray divorce, you probably do not have to work out child custody or child support, because your kids are grown. On the other hand, you may have more property to split up after so many years together. Clear answers to your questions about divorce from a qualified divorce attorney can help you get a clearer picture about your future.
