The traditions surrounding divorce have changed as society has changed. Fewer ex-spouses are mortal enemies after a divorce decree is signed. More ex-spouses communicate via text messaging, and others have lived together to ride out financial downturns before they could officially move on.
Most importantly, more spouses in Ohio and across America are getting divorced later in life compared to past generations. According to a survey conducted by the American Association for Matrimonial Lawyers, 61 percent of divorce attorneys saw an increase in baby boomer divorces in the past five years, while 38 percent indicated that they did not see such an increase.
There are a number of reasons behind this trend. First, more baby boomers are stable enough financially to live separate lives (and maintain separate homes). This is different from past generations where the amount of wealth simply was not available. With more baby boomers having retirement accounts, pensions and access to Social Security benefits, the specter of living apart can be enticing.
With financial availability comes changes in tradition. No longer are older spouses (particularly women) dependent on a spouse’s income for their well-being. Also with children gone, older spouses have the ability to live for themselves, and that can sometimes mean that it be done without their spouse.
Women over the age of 50 were most likely to seek a divorce, according to the study. Perhaps that milestone age is a catalyst for a lifestyle change. Nevertheless, if you are considering divorce after a long marriage, an experienced attorney can help you understand the process, as well as your rights and options.
Source: UPI.com, Lawyers see an increase in baby boomer divorces, June 12, 2013