What You Need to Know About Grey Divorce

In recent years, there has been an increase in divorces among older couples who have been married for a long time. They often have children who are grown up when they make the decision to break off their relationship and go their separate ways. 

This decision usually has a great impact on the couple’s life and the lives of their family members. The nickname for these types of divorces is “Grey Divorce.” So, why are so many people over the age of 60 getting divorced?

Reasons for Gray Divorce in Georgia

There are many reasons that justify this new social phenomenon, and some of the most common are:

  • Financial independence: Women no longer depend economically on their husbands as much as they did in years past and are now able to divorce with confidence that they can support themselves.
  • The attitude towards divorce has changed: Divorce is no longer viewed with the contempt or shame it once was. 
  • Incompatibility: The intimate aspect of marriage is becoming more important in recent decades, and couples who struggle with intimacy are now more empowered to strike out on new paths. 
  • Loss of interest: Simply put, people change with age, and relationships that once worked may no longer make the participants happy. 
  • Changing life expectations: Many do not want to put up with an unhappy marriage any longer. Once children grow up and leave the home, these spouses often feel more free to pursue new life goals in their later years.

Of course, there are many other reasons that older individuals seek divorce. However, some experts believe that divorce takes a greater toll on the elderly because it can be harmful to their health and aggravate existing economic problems.

Evaluating the Pros and Cons

As in all cases, there is a positive side and a negative side to divorce after 60. Advantages include things such as:

  • You can meet a new person.
  • You can learn more about yourself.
  • You can diversify your intimate life. 
  • You will not be beholden to anyone.

Disadvantages of a grey divorce may include things such as the following:

  • Divorce is stressful. 
  • The couple’s mutual friends may feel strange and uncomfortable.  
  • It is not always easy to change old habits.
  • It can be stressful to leave your familiar place of residence.
  • You can feel lonely. 

In general, before deciding on a “grey divorce,” carefully consider all these aspects and any other factors that are relevant to your situation. 

Dealing With the Consequences of Divorce

  • Make sure you are prepared for the emotional confusion that comes with divorce. 
  • Do not try to face this new stage of life alone. 
  • Do not let your spirit sink and do not exaggerate the situation.
  • Do not forget your children and grandchildren: They are still your family, and even grown children can suffer emotionally when their parents divorce.
  • Consider divorce as an opportunity to grow as a person and learn new things. 
  • Accept that you cannot control everything in life. 
  • Maintain a friendly relationship with your ex.
  • And most important of all, remember that healing takes time.

In the end, it is up to you whether you divorce or not. What is true is that if it happens, you can try to become the person you always wanted and take advantage of this new adventure.

When to Seek Help of an Attorney

If you have decided to get divorced, no matter your age, you can get help from an established family lawyer in Georgia. Your lawyer will make sure that all your rights and responsibilities are considered. Contact the attorneys at Lankford & Moore Law today to schedule a consultation. 

I realized the true function of a lawyer was to unite parties riven asunder. The lesson was so indelibly burnt into me that a large part of my time during the twenty years of my practice as a lawyer was occupied in bringing about private compromises of hundreds of cases. I lost nothing thereby — not even money, certainly not my soul.

Mahatma Gandhi

Lankford & Moore Law in Downtown Lawrenceville

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