Gray divorce is a trend in older adults divorcing. Older adults include those who are at least 50 years of age and those who are older. In the last 20 years, adults over the age of 50 have become more likely to divorce.
Why is gray divorce common? Forbes explains some of the factors behind the gray divorce.
Life expectancy
In the past, life expectations were not as high. Nowadays, with higher life expectations and better health, older adults are growing apart more frequently. It feels safer to divorce and to find someone new than it may have in the past. People who are over the age of 50 still have time to find what makes them happy. Sometimes, this means that they will let go of older partners to find someone new.
Finances
When it comes to fighting amongst couples, finances are one of the top reasons for a divorce. If an older couple is in debt or if one person overspends and cannot manage money, it can put a strain on the marriage. Older adults are not exempt from fighting about financial matters. In fact, it is one of the most common reasons for gray divorce.
Cheating
Older adults are individualists. This means that many of them will put their needs and happiness above another person’s, even if that other person is his or her spouse. Infidelity is a common reason for gray divorce. On one hand, cheating is not as stigmatized as it used to be. In addition, dating sites and social media may encourage cheating. There are dating sites specifically designed for married adults to find another partner.