When most people think of a couple going through a divorce, they often envision a young couple that made a major decision too young or a slightly older couple that has succumbed to the struggles associated with raising a family. What many aren’t aware of is that the age group with the fastest-growing divorce rate is not the young couples in their 20s, 30s or even 40s; rather, it’s actually couples over 50. The divorce rate for couples in this age group has doubled in the past 20 years even though rates in other age groups have stabilized or decreased. There are a number of factors leading to the increase of gray divorce in Connecticut and across the country.
The aging population is a contributing factor to the increase in gray divorces. The American population is steadily aging due to increased life expectancies thanks to medical advances. People are now healthier and more active at older ages. There is simply more time at stake that many don’t want to waste in a bad marriage.
Couples today don’t have to deal with the stigma that once surrounded divorce. As times have changed and divorce has become more common, the view of divorce has changed, and it is much more widely accepted. Even some religions are re-evaluating their stance on divorce.
Another contributing factor to gray divorce is the increased financial independence of women today. Many female baby boomers had careers outside the home, so they have a sense of financial independence many women who were dependent on their husbands’ incomes did not. The sense of being able to support themselves financially has given many women the courage to leave an unhappy marriage without the worry of living in poverty.
Seniors today are like no others before them. Improved health, relaxed societal views and improved financial independence have given seniors today the freedom and courage to seek happiness when marriage is no longer providing it. With the help of an experienced attorney knowledgeable in Connecticut divorce laws, seniors can seek a divorce that will allow them to enjoy their later years with new adventures and exciting changes.