Dec 7, 2021

Why is Gray Divorce on the Rise?

Divorce and General Articles

Gray divorce is a term used for older couples who have been married for a long time and decide to divorce. While divorce does not discriminate based on a couples age, it appears that the divorce rate of people over 50 is on the rise. The question is, why?

While divorce does not discriminate based on a couples age, it appears that the divorce rate of people over 50 is on the rise. Michael Hughes, Esq., an attorney-mediator at Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation, discusses this increase.

The reasons for this are fairly apparent and are some of the same reasons that younger people get divorced.

First, financial concerns can be a primary reason why a “gray” couple may get divorced. Some couples who struggle with debt or fight about finances often end up divorcing. Also, divorce can be caused by one parties overspending or not managing the household finances correctly. Additionally, one of the parties may earn significantly more that the other party and demand on making decisions involving money causing a fight or fights during the marriage.
This, again, is not limited to older couples.

Another reason for the increase in gray divorce is infidelity. As a mediator, I have had couples of all ages sit with me and tell me a story of infidelity. The story normally is that “we grew apart” or “the spark was not there anymore.” In addition to the regular ways that couples meet, there are many dating websites today that can lead one partner to stray from the marriage and encourage someone to start dating.

This, again, is not limited to older couples. It is something that can and does cause couples come to me as a mediator. In my capacity as a mediator, I work with couples of all ages to help them overcome the reasons that led to them wanting a divorce and work through distribution of their marital estate and make a determination after reasoned discussion on the length and amount of alimony, if necessary.

If you have any questions or would just like information about how Alpha’s mediation program may work for you, please reach out to use at Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation.

Michael Hughes, Esq. is an attorney-mediator with the Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation. He can be reached at 800-310-9085 at mehughes@alpha-divorce.com.

Alpha Center for Divorce Mediation
Email: alphacares@alpha-divorce.com
Phone: 1-800-310-9085
Website: www.alpha-divorce.com