Overall, divorce rates in Ohio and the rest of the United States are declining, but so-called “gray divorces” are skyrocketing. Increasingly, couples who’ve been married for decades are calling it quits. But what’s fueling the trend? Why are more long-term marriages ending?
Infidelity
Whether you’ve been married for 30 years or three, infidelity can fatally hit any union in the heart. And these days, a willing paramour is frequently just a few clicks away. In some cases, one spouse has a documented history of stepping out, and after years of enduring the disrespect, the other spouse throws in the towel and files for divorce. In other cases, a one-time incident sparks the separation.
Decreased social stigma
In the not-too-distant past, divorce was a one-way ticket to social and professional exclusion. Women, especially, found themselves stricken from guest lists and welcomed only in the demimonde. But these days, with divorce rates reaching over 50% in some areas, it’s commonplace. As a result, older people who once banished the idea of divorce now see it as a viable option.
Empty nest and retirement syndrome
Oftentimes, when you marry and have kids, the next 18 years are a warp-speed whirlwind. Then one day, you wake up and find yourself alone in the house without much to say to one another. During these transitional periods, some folks may realize that diverging on different life paths is the right move for them.
If you’re navigating the end of a long-term marriage, consulting with family law attorneys may prove exceptionally helpful. They may be able to help you determine the best course of action and protect you through the process.