Signs a Gray Divorce is Imminent
It’s common for younger couples to get divorced, but those who are at retirement age? Not so much. Gray divorce is the term used for divorce among couples who are over 50 years old.
Gray divorces are on the rise and have increased dramatically since the 1990s. In fact, gray divorces were once considered rare, but the divorce rate among older couples doubled between 1990 and 2010.
Divorce gets harder as you get older. There are more assets to divvy up. As you get closer to retirement, it’s harder to save up the money you need. You might need to work longer to meet your goals.
Therefore, if you can spot the signs that a gray divorce is imminent, you can try to keep your marriage alive. Otherwise, you can decide that it won’t be happily ever after together. Here are some signs to look for.
Feeling You’ve Grown Apart
All long-term marriages naturally go through ebbs and flows, so this can be hard to determine. However, if you and your spouse feel like you are headed in separate directions without each other, it’s time to speak up. Have a discussion about future goals and figure out what you each want to do.
Unresolved Resentments
Unresolved resentment can fester until a person erupts. The disagreements can be seemingly minor, like leaving dishes in the sink or maybe they are long-term disagreements over important things like money and parenting. In any case, these issues can cause resentment over time and possibly divorce.
You’re No Longer Fighting
Even the best marriages have some degree of conflict. If you and your spouse are never speaking and are actively avoiding conflict, you are not resolving anything. You cannot ignore a problem and expect it to go away. When you are unwilling or unbothered to discuss it, you are signaling the end of your marriage.
Empty Nest Syndrome
Many couples welcome the day where their children have grown and moved out, but for some marriages, this can be the kiss of death. That’s because many couples in a bad marriage may stay together for the sake of the children. Once the children leave home, the couple tends to move on as well — but in separate directions.
Health Issues
Health issues can be a risk factor for gray divorce, even though marriage vows involve staying together in “sickness and health.” Chronic medical issues can place considerable stress on a marriage and couples may struggle to cope.
Seek Legal Help
Divorce is still common as you get older. More and more people are getting divorced in their 50s, 60s, and beyond, making it harder to retire.
Nobody wants to think about divorce at any age, but it’s important to know it can happen at any time. Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can guide you through all the relevant matters. Contact our office to find out how we can help in your unique situation. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling 954-764-4330.
Source:
parade.com/living/what-is-a-gray-divorce
