5 Common Reasons for Gray Divorces in Illinois

 Posted on June 10, 2024 in Divorce

Even as divorce rates among younger generations are slowly declining, studies show that gray divorces are on the rise. Boomers, or those born between 1946 and 1964, are getting divorced more than ever before. Those 65 and older are divorcing at higher rates than any other age group. Gray divorces among that demographic more than tripled between 1990 and 2021.

What is driving this surge in gray divorces? An experienced gray divorce attorney in Illinois can tell you a variety of reasons why people 50 and older get divorced, five of which will be discussed in this article.

Mid-Life Crises

Mid-life crises most commonly happen among people between 40 and 60. A mid-life crisis is a period of emotional turmoil and confusion about self-identity. It often happens when a person feels inadequate or feels that life has passed him or her by. This can result in:

• Panic

• Mood swings

• Dramatic changes in behavior, such as adultery

When a spouse suffers a mid-life crisis, the behavioral changes — especially if they include cheating — may make him or her unrecognizable to the other spouse. This can trigger a gray divorce.

Disputes About Children

As couples grow older, so do their children. Parents in a gray marriage sometimes have serious disagreements about their children, especially if the parents have children from prior marriages. These disputes can include:

• How much inheritance to leave a child from a previous marriage

• Where to send a child to college

• Whether to allow an adult child to live at home

If these conflicts go unresolved, they can lead to a gray divorce.

Professional Wives

Studies show that women in careers are less likely to view marriage as permanent and less likely to get married than their counterparts. Researchers suggest that the increase in women having careers is a causal factor in gray divorces.

Empty Nests

Some marriages simmer down long before the spouses reach their 50s. In those cases, one or both of the partners may have already decided to get divorced once the children move out. For them, an empty nest is the first opportunity to start the divorce process.

Differences in Aging

Two spouses can age very differently, which might affect how one sees the other. One spouse may age gracefully and vibrantly, while the other struggles with age. It is not uncommon in such cases for the former spouse to initiate a gray divorce.

Contact a Yorkville, IL Gray Divorce Lawyer

There are many reasons why the rate of divorce in people over 50 is rising. But whatever the reason for your gray divorce, it is important to know that there are certain issues that are more challenging in gray divorces than in divorces that take place in earlier stages of life. The best way to overcome these challenges is to consult with a Kendall County, Illinois gray divorce attorney. 

At Divorce Over 50 - Goostree Law Group, we excel at making the divorce process for our clients over 50 as smooth as possible. Let our skilled attorneys handle your gray divorce and know that your interests are being well-defended. Call 630-634-5050 for a free consultation today.