Dealing With Divorce After 50
Posted on in Divorce
In the United States, divorce is a fact of life for many people. However, one demographic that has seen an increase in divorce rates over the past few decades includes people over the age of 50. Divorces for people who are in their fifties or older is often referred to as “gray divorce.” According to national data, the rate for gray divorces has doubled in the past 30 years and researchers predict that by 2030, that rate will have tripled.
Those who choose to end their marriage later in their life will often face a wide variety of emotional and financial challenges that are different from those faced by their younger counterparts, and determining how to move forward after the end of a long marriage can often be difficult. The following are some tips for surviving and thriving after a gray divorce.
You Are Never Too Old to Start Over
A major life change like a divorce can be very stressful, especially when it involves the end of a long-term partnership. During the divorce process and even after it is over, you may experience anxiety about changes to your habits and routines and wonder if you will be able to find a new partner. However, by focusing on practicing self-care, taking part in activities you enjoy, and continuing to move forward, you can start the next phase of your life on a positive note.
Be Prepared for Changing Relationships
The end of your marriage will likely result in some adjustments to your relationships with friends and family. If you have been close with your in-laws, you may find that those relationships will change, and that closeness may no longer exist.
Be prepared for the possibility that friends may view you differently now that you are single. You may even “lose” some friends who decide to choose your ex over you, but you may also have other friends who choose you over your ex.
You should also be aware of how your divorce may affect your adult children. It is not just young children who have a hard time with their parents splitting up; adult children often do too. This is why it is a good idea to maintain communication with them, ensuring that you continue to be a part of their lives as you move on after the end of your marriage.
Understand Legal and Financial Issues
Couples who have been married for many years often have a wide variety of complex financial issues to resolve during their divorce. In addition to dividing a substantial amount of marital property (including equity in a marital home), spousal maintenance (alimony) may also be a factor at the end of a long-term marriage. Couples should also be sure to understand how to divide retirement funds or pensions and address issues such as life insurance policies, wills and trusts, and Social Security benefits.
Contact a Collin County Family Lawyer for Help
While gray divorce can be complex, an experienced Plano, TX divorce attorney can ensure that you address all applicable legal and financial issues as you dissolve your marriage. Call Law Office of Brian Bagley at (972) 843-7158 for a free and confidential consultation and find out how our firm can help. We can help you establish a good foundation for moving forward into the next phase of your life.
Source:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/complicated-love/201809/7-key-facts-about-divorce-after-long-marriages