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The Realities of a “Gray” Divorce
According to a recent study led by the Pew Research Center, divorce rates for older couples over 50 have doubled since the 1990s. When going through a “gray” divorce, it’s critical to understand the unique challenges you may face and how to get support throughout the process. Read on to learn more about the obstacles that can come with a gray divorce and how to move on with your life.
Common Reasons Why Couples Divorce Over 50
While every divorce situation is unique, commonly older people consider divorce for the following reasons:
- Growing apart. As a young couple, you may have started your relationship with similar interests and have done many things together. However, as you grow older, it may come to light that you don’t have as much in common as you once used to.
- Empty Nesters. When you had your children, you undoubtedly kept very busy raising them. When the focus is no longer on children and children have moved on with their own lives, sometimes couples realize that the marriage was more child-focused and less about being a couple.
- Aging parents. When one spouse has an aging parent that needs care and a lot of attention, it can become a contentious situation. When the stresses of aging parents take over, it can add even more strain on a marriage.
- Feeling regret. When we decide to get married, we choose a partner that we think is the best match. However, when reaching the age of 50 or 60, there may suddenly be regrets about the person chosen as a life partner.
Challenges to Consider in a “Gray Divorce”
Older couples going through a divorce may not have to worry about child support if their children are grown and out on their own. However, there are some issues that some may find challenging, such as:
- Alimony. Calculating spousal support can be challenging, especially if one or both spouses are retired. Having an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of a gray divorce can make all the difference.
- Division of assets. With so much accumulated over the years, and strong financial ties, diving assets in a long-term marriage can be complex.
- Social Security benefits. One spouse may be entitled to draw off the other spouse’s Social Security benefits. However, having an experienced attorney can help you decide whether or not it may be more beneficial to draw from your own.
- Life insurance. If you are responsible for alimony, you will be required to carry a life insurance policy comparable to the amount of spousal support to ensure that your ex-spouse will continue to receive support in the event of your death.
How To Find Support
Whether you’ve been married for a short time or over 30 years, divorce is never an easy process, and when feeling like all hope has been lost, it can be challenging to pick up the pieces. However, there are some things you can do to help you get the support you need to move on. Here are some tips:
- Join a divorce support group.
- Practice self-care.
- Learn a new hobby.
- Spend more time with family and friends.
- Take a vacation just for yourself.
Schedule a Case Review With Our Family Law Team Today
If you are considering divorce, the family law team at Ford & Friedman can provide the skilled representation and knowledgeable advice you need to navigate each step of the divorce process. Our team is dedicated to providing our clients the personalized attention and tailored solutions needed to overcome any obstacles along the way.
Reach out to our law firm today at (702) 904-9898 to request a consultation with one of our divorce attorneys to get started on your divorce case.
Contact Ford & Friedman by calling (702) 904-9898.