Grey Divorce: Letting Go and Starting Over

For some folks divorce is a liberating experience while for others it is a complete shock. Yet, today, there is a growing trend among older folks who are taking the divorce plunge in their later years. Growing more prevalent in the lives of those who are over the age of 55, “Grey Divorce” is seen more and more in cultures around the world. Although it is common to think that married couples that have been together for years and years have gotten past their relationship issues, many of those couples are now choosing to get divorced. Apparently, because we are living longer lives, both men and women are reaching out for a more meaningful existence. Regardless of age, a number of older folks still want to find satisfaction and fulfillment and are letting go and starting over. What’s even more interesting about the ending of these marriages is that many of those who are seeking later life divorce, still love and respect their former partners, but they are just ready to move on.

Women Seeking Divorce in Higher Numbers
Are you one of those people who have been in a long-term marriage and have now decided to get a divorce? Perhaps you were married at a young age and have found that as you matured and developed, you and your partner grew apart. Or you recognize that something vital is missing between you and your partner. Well, it’s never too late to change your mind. Surprising statistics given by the US Human Resources Services Administration show that Americans over the age of 55 are divorcing in higher numbers than ever before. In fact, census figures show that divorce among those over age 65 has doubled since 1980. And a recent, nation-wide study carried out by the American Association of Retired Persons suggests that women from older couple marriages between the ages of 40 and 80 seek divorce in higher numbers than men.

A Desire for Freedom, Identity and Fulfillment
So, what’s behind this new phenomenon known as Grey Divorce and why are so many men and women succumbing to divorce after decades of marriage? The reasons vary between men and women, but according to some studies, women state they have finally reached a breaking point and they are just no longer willing to live with or deal with certain behaviors. Whether it is due to having endured alcohol or drug addiction, physical or emotional abuse, infidelity, or simply being unfulfilled, many women are leaving relationships that cause them dissatisfaction. And although we often hear about men leaving partners for younger women, many men, who are opting for late life divorce, say that they are bored and unfulfilled. Most of the older men who are leaving long-term partners are interested in finding ways to experience more life and in fact, the majority of them say they want an opportunity to meet someone who can give life more meaning.
StraightDivorce Staff

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For more information, contact the Family Law Offices of Renee M. Marcelle at (415) 456-4444, or online at http://www.familylawmarin.com/--