Gray divorce also knowns as seniors divorce

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Gray divorce also knowns as seniors divorce

What Is Gray Divorce?

Man and woman sitting on couch looking at each otherGray divorce or silver splinter is a term referring to the demographic trend of an increasing divorce rate for older “gray-haired couples” in long lasting marriages

Gray divorce issues 

According to Forbes Magazine, “Gray Divorce: Its Reasons and Implications” published in 2019, the social stigma surrounding divorce has gradually diminished over the years, but has not led to an overall increase in divorce, except among people over the age of 50. Some of the circumstances that have been highlighted as a cause or negatively impacting the success of  long-term marriages that may contribute to the increase in divorce among people in this age bracket include financial management, growing apart, infidelity, better health and life expectancy rates, and addictions.

While gray divorce trends have been documented dating back to the early 1980s it was not until 2004 that this age demographic of divorces was labeled as such. In a 2004 study titled, “The Divorce Experience: A Study of Divorce at Midlife and Beyond,” AARP created public awareness about gray divorce. This concept was further expanded upon in Deirdre Bairs 2007 book titled, “Calling it Quits” which contains interviews with older couples divorcing. 

Gray Divorce Statistics

According to the AARP study:

 66% of females initiated divorces later in life, which contrasted with 41% of male participants initiating divorce.

 73% of participants divorced in their 40s 

22% of participants divorced in their 50s and

 4% of participants divorced in their 60s or later.

Preparing for life after a gray divorce

Divorcing after 50 can be daunting particularly when married couples plan to grow old together. Planning for later phases in life can be difficult and overwhelming as people age and need to contend with retirement and potential health issues. Planning for a single future can be very different from what you have envisioned for yourself. Factors to consider when divorcing at this phase of life, include retirement planning, senior living needs and financial planning.

It is important to meet with a financial advisor to create a new retirement plan for your future. Divorce will likely result in the distribution of retirement accounts, and perhaps include provisions for Social Security income. It is important that you understand how the distribution of these retirement assets will impact you going forward.

Senior living needs: Now that you will be unmarried it is important for you to give some thought to how you will obtain the care that you need as you age. A long-term care specialist along with seeking out an elder law attorney in your area can be another professional source for you as you assess your options.

Your financial budget: You may not be able to remain in the marital home after your divorce and even if you do your monthly budget will change. Your attorney can discuss gray divorce alimony and how it may impact you. Planning a budget that will meet your current needs is an integral part of working through your divorce.

Divorce lawyers for seniors

DeTorres & DeGeorge is always prepared to provide compassionate representation. Contact us today to discuss your gray divorce so that you can successfully plan for your life going forward.

 

 

Divorce Guide
About DeTorres and DeGeorge Family Law

DeTorres and DeGeorge Family Law is a New Jersey based family law firm that has been helping New Jersey residents achieve the best possible results in their divorce for nearly 30 years. The DeTorres and DeGeorge Family Law team is always ready to fight for their clients’ rights – determined to help New Jersey families overcome legal challenges from start to finish. Our legal team, with over 65 years of combined experience, provides expert guidance on all family law and divorce-related matters, including custody and parenting time, alimony and child support, equitable distribution of assets, premarital agreements, post-divorce issues, executive compensation distribution, divorces for business owners, and divorce mediation. The firm has been recognized for its dedication and expertise in the industry by multiple local and national organizations, including Super Lawyers, Law Firm 500, and the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys. Rosanne DeTorres, Managing Partner, is one of 150 lawyers certified as a matrimonial law attorney.

Rosanne S. DeTorres
Ms. DeTorres is the managing partner and co-founder of DeTorres & DeGeorge Family Law. She is also only one of 150 attorneys in the State of NJ that is certified by the NJ Supreme Court as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. Ms. DeTorres graduated...
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