Although divorce rates have declined across the nation, divorce is becoming increasingly common for Americans age 50 and over. In fact, the divorce rate for the age group has reached an all-time high. In 1990, about 10 percent of individuals divorcing were over the age of 50. By 2009, that number was approximately 25 percent and more than 600,000 people in the United States over 50 chose to end their marriage. By 2030, more than 800,000 people over the age of 50 are expected to divorce each year.
A survey conducted by the AARP in 2004 reportedly found that women between the ages of 40 and 69 were more likely to initiate a divorce than men. Men initiated a split in only 34 percent of divorce cases within the age group. Additionally, infidelity played a factor in only about one fourth of divorces for older Americans. 53 percent of the time, it was not the first divorce for at least one of the spouses. In fact, Americans aged 50 to 64 who are previously divorced are reportedly twice as likely to become divorced again. For those over 65, the likelihood quadruples.
Experts believe many members of the so-called baby boomer generation are seeking additional fulfillment as they reach the empty nest stage of life. They are purportedly looking ahead and seeking to make the most of their remaining healthy years. Divorcing during a recession can be complicated, however. A spouse who is awarded an underwater home may be burdened with additional debt.
Despite the rising baby boomer divorce rate, the AARP survey found that being alone was the top fear among both women and men between the ages of 40 and 79. Perhaps as a result of the divorce trend, dating websites geared to the 50 and up crowd are becoming increasingly common. In 2011, the number of dating website users over the age of 50 reportedly grew twice as fast as any other age group.
The end of a marriage can happen to anyone at any age. If you find yourself facing a late in life divorce or another complicated family law matter, contact Wessel, Lehker & Fumelle, Inc. Our hardworking and experienced Madison family law lawyers are available to assist you with your collaborative divorce, financial mediation, or child custody dispute. We are also ready to answer your questions and help you with a variety of other family law matters. To speak with a skilled family law attorney today, call Wessel, Lehker & Fumelle at (608) 256-1480. You may also contact the law firm through our website.
More Blogs:
Wisconsin State Senator Introduces Bill That Would Associate Single Parenthood With Child Abuse, Wisconsin Family Lawyer Blog, March 15, 2012
Wisconsin Child Support and Termination of Parental Rights, Wisconsin Family Lawyer Blog, January 4, 2011
Additional Resources:
The Gray Divorcés, by Susan Gregory Thomas, Wall Street Journal