Although marriage may prove to be a lifelong commitment for some Wisconsin residents, statistically, many marital unions will end in divorce at some point in time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 50 percent of all marriages in the United States end in divorce. Years ago, it was thought that if a couple made it past the ten year mark, they were more likely to stay married until ‘death do us part.’ Yet, a phenomenon known as gray divorce has taken the country by storm.

Understanding the concept of gray divorce

Through the years, researchers have noticed a substantial increase in the number of divorces occurring in people over 50-years-old. The Census Bureau’s American Community Survey reported that the divorce rate of people over 50 years of age has increased from 2.8 percent in 1964 to 15.4 percent in 2011. This exceeded the number of widowers that year, which totaled 13.5 percent of the population. The survey also showed that more than 25 percent of people who filed for divorce in 2011 were over the age of 50.

Factors leading to gray divorce

There are several factors that are thought to contribute to the steady rise of people who file for divorce after the age of 50. Some clinical psychologists suggest that one reason for the increased divorce rate is the transformation people go through after retirement. Retirement has been shown to cause a dramatic change in marital dynamics and the emotional stability of both parties involved.

Another change occurs when children grow up and move out of the home. The ’empty nest syndrome’ can cause couples to drift apart. People find that after spending years raising children together, they have nothing in common once the children leave the home.

The rise of the working woman has resulted in more financially independent women who are able to survive on their own. Many women who are involved in an unhappy marriage are no longer stuck in that marriage due to financial restrictions.

What are the implications?

While gray divorce may seem like an isolated problem for those who are directly involved, Bowling Green researchers believe it to have far reaching effects. These include:

  • Poor health stemming from loss of support.
  • Economic strain from reduced finances.
  • Substantial burden on adult children.
  • Increased need for government support.

While some marital unions are strong enough to survive the physical and emotional metamorphosis that people go through during their lives, others are simply not strong enough.

Contacting an attorney

Going through a divorce can be overwhelming for people of any age. Settling financial issues and dividing property can be nerve wracking, especially when heated emotions are involved. An established family law attorney can provide essential information regarding your divorce and help walk you through this difficult process.