Grey Divorce Is On The Rise: What Does it Mean?
A fact of modern life is that “grey” divorce is becoming more common. But what exactly is grey divorce and what does it mean?
What is Grey Divorce
Typically, grey divorce refers to the separation of a married couple who have been together for a long time. Usually for forty years or more. The term was phrased in the US during the early 2000’s when statistics first started to show that a new trend was emerging. Then a debate began as to the reasons for it.
Who’s Doing it?
The majority of grey divorce cases are initiated by women. It is thought that only around 40% of cases are initiated by men. At least 90% of those involved are aged between 40 and 60. With 40 to 49 years olds representing around 70% of grey divorcees.
Why is it Happening?
Experts have put forward several reasons as to why the number of grey divorces has been increasing and one of the most documented is moral pressure or the lack of it. More relaxed views on divorce mean that now little stigma attached to it. Those of a religious persuasion are far less likely to see it as a sin. It makes sense then that older people now feel more comfortable about the thought of divorce.
Another reason, it is argued, is that people are now living longer and that this throws up two more factors regarding why grey divorce happens. Either one of the parties decides that they no longer want to live with their “other half” or are compelled to leave them in order to have a “last throw of the dice” – that is to say to seek a new adventure.
Other theories include the impact on statistics due to second divorces, the development of anti-impotence drugs and the fact that baby boomers tended to marry early and so potentially to the wrong partner. Once their children have flown the nest or the couple retire, they find they are strangers.
Legal Matters
Divorce is, of course a serious business and particularly for older people whose finances are, in many cases, more complex than those of younger folk. The potential for hefty pensions, property, savings and investments are all factors that need addressing.
While mediation from legal experts may be a good way to agree on a financial settlement. When it comes down to it, a divorce solicitor may be required to complete the process of divorce. Thus allowing the two parties to move on amicably and pursue their autumn days in happiness.
I wonder if Economic Downturn, Targets, Pressures, Etc impact on individuals, leading to Divorce proceedings, etc. As surely we all need some sense of self worth, self control, self esteem rather than coercive External controls. We need to have a sense of Security :- And where does that come from? Maybe knowing what te future holds, maybe having a say, and some control in the direction/s our life takes. It seems that those with control within Society :- Are those who have Finances, Position, e.g. Royalty and Celebrities.
When surely we all need some options, choices, etc in order to have a sense of self worth, health and wellbeing. Even the Royals and Celebrity have a sense of feeling low when they have times when situations / circumstances have gone in a direction they did not foresee / plan. The Queen’ s Annus Horrilibus, etc.
Tis Nice to be Nice. Yet to be nice costs. So if the Wealth is shared, maybe we would live in a happier, healthier Enviroment, society, etc.
Sad that there is individualism, social isolation, etc. When we really are in need of sharing, Caring, Communities, etc.
Though for those unhappy in a marriage, it may be healthy for them to leave the marriage. Though that can take time, finances emotional upheaval, etc, etc.
Respect for individuals is important. Rather than encouraging Bullies, Abusers :- Through imbalance of power. Rich : Poor Gap, Educated : Uneducated, Knowledgeable : Lacking Knowledge, Etc, etc.
Love is Giving, Love is Kind….