• 19
  • October
    2011

In a previous post, we reported to Denver readers about how the divorce rate among those over 50 is moving up as divorces overall are holding steady and how these numbers seem to disprove the idea that divorces are only for young people who jumped, starry-eyed, into ill-advised unions. That people over 50 are splitting up in surprising numbers, then, is not so new, but it is such an interesting trend that researchers keep studying it in hopes of better understanding the social dynamics that are behind this trend.

One researcher recently said she believes the increase in Baby Boomer divorces is due to the advancements in professional opportunities for women. When many people who are now over 50 were first married, women did not have many professional opportunities -- they could become secretaries, teachers and that is about it. Now, of course, that has changed. This has led many women to realize they might want a career and also that they could support themselves without a spouse. This is not to say you cannot have a career and a marriage, but in at least some cases, it has led women to think they want something other than a marriage and a life at home.

Also, our society's changing views on marriage and divorce cannot be discounted. People no longer look down on those who are divorced. It is not a mark of failure, nor of a restless heart. These days, it simply means two people decided the best option for them would be to separate. People across society seem to recognize and accept this.

Another interesting trend is our society's migration towards a more youth-oriented culture. One psychologist recently pointed out that we are using Botox, going to stay-young-forever exercise classes and generally not "settling down" even when we reach an age where that used to be more common. Some people who subscribe to this mindset are no longer interested in the conventional lifestyle marriage offers.

Whatever your reason may be, if you are thinking of divorce, you should know it isn't something that is only for young people or for those who need to get out of terrible relationships. Speaking to a family law attorney can help you identify ways you and your spouse can separate as amicably as possible.

Source: The Akron Beacon Journal, "Divorce rate rising for baby boomers," Kim Hone -McMahan, Oct. 18, 2011