If you are looking at the current status of your marriage and considering the possibility of divorce, it might surprise you that you are not the only person over the age of 50 facing similar struggles.
A recent article cited information gathered from the National Center for Health Statistics and U.S. Census Bureau that found that so-called “gray-haired” divorce rates have been on a substantial rise since 1990. It appears more adults facing the second half of their lives are more dissatisfied with their marital relationships than ever before. Is there a common thread among those filing for divorce?
Boomers Have Led Divorce Statistics for Years
As the stigma for filing for divorce was minimized throughout the past fifty years, those who grew to adults during the 1960’s to the 80’s celebrated this new freedom by leaving their spouses in ever increasing numbers in search of greater personal fulfillment.
As time went by, Boomers remarried, but unfortunately statistics have shown that second and third marriages are even more likely to dissolve. So, it should be no surprise that this age group is continuing the trend as they enter their so-called golden years.
Empty Nests and Retirement Change the Game and Your Relationship
Another major contributor to the spike of divorce in those over 50, is that their children are now leaving the nest. For the spouse that has been a busy homemaker for over twenty years, they may be discovering dissatisfaction in their future. Maybe they’ve left home, too, in search of a profession that doesn’t fit into the life that the couple created over time.
If retirement is looming, you may not have a common vision on how to enjoy those golden years. The professional leaving their high-octane job behind could be perfectly happy strolling an empty beach for the next twenty years while the spouse who raised the children is ready for expanding their personal abilities and experiences.
Whatever the underlying reason may be, it doesn’t change the fact that a once acceptable home life has become one filled with resentment, growing anger and a desire to expand your horizons. It’s time to make a change.
If you are seriously considering divorce, don’t jump down the rabbit hole without properly preparing yourself. Contact an attorney experience in family law who can assist you in creating a future life without your spouse that is both emotionally and financially stable.