Why Are Divorces After Decades of Marriage Increasing?

The phenomenon known as gray divorce is gaining momentum in the state of Florida. Gray divorce refers to marriages dissolving among couples aged 50 and older. While overall divorce rates have declined or stabilized, the trend among older adults tells a different story.

From asset division to estate affairs and well-being, exiting a decades-long marriage demands legal guidance. Know that a West Palm Beach family attorney can guide you toward a secure, fair, and confident future.

Why Are People Leaving Long-Term Unions?

Florida has a large retiree population, which may be one of the reasons that the state feels the effects of the gray divorce trend. While statewide figures don’t isolate gray divorce specifically, experts have estimated that divorce among adults 50+ in Florida has more than doubled in the past few decades. This reflects a national pattern of long-term marriages dissolving.

A handful of factors help explain why older couples are choosing divorce after long marriages.

• Generational attitudes. Many older Floridians belong to the Baby Boomer generation. This is a generation who lived through the years when divorce became more socially acceptable. So, unlike older generations, they may feel less compelled to stay in unhappy marriages.
• Longer lives. People are living longer, so if a healthy individual expects decades of life ahead post-50, they could reconsider whether it’s worth remaining in an unsatisfying relationship.
• Life transitions. The departure of children and changes brought by retirement can prompt couples to reassess their mutual compatibility.
• Greater financial independence. Many people, especially women, have more financial security than they did in past generations. This gives them the financial means to leave a family structure, if desired.
• Remarriage dynamics. As divorce became more common, so did remarrying. Florida sees many second or third marriages among older adults, which statistically carry higher divorce rates.

While some experience relief and excitement when separating, ending a decades-long marriage can trigger profound grief, loss, loneliness, and identity shifts as well. Emotional support and practical planning become vital components of the journey.

What Makes Gray Divorce Negotiations Different?

After decades of marriage, assets (homes, retirement accounts, investment portfolios) can be substantial. Equitable division under Florida law is not always simple, the process can be complex and emotionally weighty.

Additionally, long marriages often raise alimony considerations. Florida courts evaluate length of marriage, contributions, and financial need. But it is important to recognize that permanent alimony has been phased out under recent reforms.

Divorce may affect one spouse’s healthcare coverage, too. Particularly if one of the individuals relied on their spouse’s plan. Talk to a West Palm Beach family attorney about what benefit plans will need to be reviewed, along with estate planning necessitates, such as revising wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations.

Is it time for you to leave a marriage as you move into your retirement years? Have a conversation with the legal team at Bruce S. Rosenwater & Associates. Gray divorce brings both opportunities and challenges for couples navigating the end of marriages later in life. Schedule a confidential consultation today.