Gen X is getting older, and surprisingly, more are considering divorce than ever before. Studies indicate that a larger group of people are seeking divorce after the age of 50 - including Gen X, Generation Jones and Boomers. A "gray divorce," as it is called, can prove to be a good move for anyone who is ready for a new phase of life, no matter the age.
As a Georgia divorce lawyer, Attorney Sharon Jackson LLC is available to serve those who are making these incredibly difficult decisions. We help individuals who need a fresh start to have the best possible route to achieving those goals. If you are thinking about a Gen X divorce, contact our Georgia family law attorney now.
Gray divorce rates are up. From 1999 to 2010, the number of people getting a divorce at the age of 50 or older doubled. Those rates slowed during the pandemic. Yet, recent studies indicate that nearly 40% of divorces today are happening in people over the age of 50.
What is quite interesting is that divorce rates across all age groups as a whole have dropped in recent years. The only gap in that trend is for Americans who are 65 years of age and up. Gen Xers are simply unwilling to remain in what some call empty marriages.
As we see in Metro Atlanta divorces, more people are making big decisions later in life to move beyond marriages that are not working for them. There are several reasons why this phenomenon is happening:
1. Longer Lifespans
The biggest reason for later-in-life divorce is that people are living longer, and that means they stay healthier longer. It is not uncommon to see couples who are married for 50, 60, or even 70 years now, which is far longer than it was just a few decades ago. The reality is that it is a very long time to spend with one person, and for some, especially in less-than-ideal marriages, it is no longer something they are willing to just accept.
2. People Marrying Older
Baby boomers often were married in their early 20s, and often even earlier than that. That was normal then, but now, people are waiting to get married much later in life. Some professionals note that today, marriages are no longer based on the requirement that one person be the breadwinner and someone else be the homemaker. Instead, people marry for love and self-actualization.
3. Empty Nester Syndrome
Then there is the massive life change that happens once the kids leave home. By 50, parenting is no longer the most important part of daily life. Yet, many people are still active, vibrant, and wanting to enjoy a higher quality of life. Yet, if and when they are no longer able to focus on the children, couples seem to fall apart.
4. Wives Being Less Tolerant of Insensitive Spouses After Menopause
There's even evidence that many women are simply no longer tolerant of a spouse who is insensitive, especially as they get older. Many women specifically are no longer ready to settle for "good enough." Ending shell marriages has proven to be an important route to making those later decades matter more.
5. Modern Marriage Trends Are Vastly Different
Modern marriage expectations are far different from what they were a half century ago. Marriage isn't just focused on finding someone to spend years with, but rather on being with someone who shares your same moral values and ideas on living life.
Divorce is no longer taboo, and it is certainly an option for people of any age when they find themselves in a position that no longer works. Whether you are no longer the same person focused on the kids or you are staring down the barrel of mortality and you are not willing to settle, divorce is a viable option for many.
The studies indicate that older people are more involved in new relationships than ever before. A Pew Research Study found that about 14% of adults in their 60s have used an online dating site or app. About 12% of those over the age of 70 have used those dating apps.
A boomer divorce is not a bad thing. It is an opportunity to make every year of your life matter. Whether you are simply unhappy or no longer living with the person you thought you were, we can help you. As a Georgia family law attorney, we commit to helping those who are making the decision to move forward with the confidence and tools to do so.
At Attorney Sharon Jackson LLC, we know that big decisions require careful planning. Gen X divorce can be an opportunity to move beyond where you are and achieve bigger things. But you need a plan that minimizes financial risk and supports your future goals.
Contact our Georgia divorce lawyer to review your situation openly and honestly. Call (678) 436-3636 now to speak to us about your options.
Why is gray divorce happening so much more frequently?
Some of the most common reasons for gray divorce include a lower level of marital satisfaction, especially in Gen X compared to previous generations, empty nest transition, personal fulfillment and objectives not being met, financial independence, and increased life expectancy.
What do I need to think about before filing for divorce after 50 in Metro Atlanta?
Work closely with your divorce attorney to plan for asset protection, retirement fund division, and estate planning. Alimony and support are also big parts of this process.
If I remarry after 50, should I consider a prenuptial agreement?
Many people over the age of 50 remarry. If you plan to do so, establish some initial support and rules through a prenuptial agreement.
Attorney Sharon Jackson LLC
175 Langley Drive, Suite A1
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Phone: (678) 909-4100
