Virginia residents may be surprised to learn that, even though divorce rates overall are declining, divorces among couples over the age of 50 have doubled from 1990 to 2010, according to a survey of U.S. divorces.
Therapists believe the biggest reason for people splitting up later in life is emotional detachment. With people living longer than they did in previous generations, individuals are realizing that they do not want to spend another 20 or so years after retirement with someone who makes them unhappy. Additionally, couples who have grown apart may find it easier to divorce now than it would have been a few decades ago, when divorce was more stigmatized.
Some of the older couples filing for divorce have already been divorced at least once before. Statistically speaking, individuals who have been divorced are more likely to get divorced again in future relationships. However, regardless of whether someone has been married one or five times, there are certain problems that crop up in any relationship, such as financial struggles. Married couples who have been dealing with debt or unemployment for years are more likely to have relationship difficulties that lead to separation. At the other end of the spectrum, women with long-established careers may find it easier to walk away from a bad relationship, and they are less likely to tolerate a spouse’s transgressions, such as adultery.
Though getting divorced at an older age may have some benefits, for instance, older couples may not have to consider child custody or child support, there may also be some additional challenges, such as having additional property or assets that need to be divided. Individuals who are going through the separation process might benefit from the assistance of an experienced Virginia family law attorney.
