For the first time ever, more individuals over the age of 50 are divorced than widowed. According to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey in 2011, approximately 15.4 of those surveyed were divorced, 2.1 percent were separated and only 13.4 percent were widowed. Not only is the number of divorced individuals over the age of 50 on the rise, but the number of divorced baby boomers overall continues to grow.
Termed the "gray divorce," new research done at Bowling Green State University discovered that the divorce rate for people over the age of 50 has almost doubled since 1990, despite the national trend for divorce rates going downward. In 1990, only one in ten individuals over the age of 50 was divorced. However, by 2011, according to the census's American Community Survey, approximately 28 percent of those that stated that they had been divorced in the past 12 months were over the age of 50.
Why more and more baby boomers are divorcing
There are several reasons why divorce among the older generation in the U.S. is on the rise. First, baby boomers are less conservative when it comes to matters such as marriage and divorce. According to a Pew Research study done on demographic trends, approximately 66 percent of those surveyed stated that getting divorced was preferable to staying in an unhappy marriage as opposed with 54 percent of younger adults that stated staying married was the better option.
In addition to this, those over 50 lived through a period of history that attacked stereotypical gender roles. Many baby boomers were able to participate in civil rights, anti-war and women's right movements as young adults.
Tips for personal reinvention following divorce
While divorce may be the right decision for many over 50, divorced baby boomers may still experience the fear of being alone, worry about never finding another person to live with or marry and have real concerns about their financial stability during the later years of their life. In order to combat these fears and successfully restart their life following divorce, baby boomers should:
- Create a new support system by volunteering or taking a new part-time job.
- Embrace new technology to connect with others.
- Find a way to process their emotions either with the help of a therapist or coach.
- Explore new interests and hobbies like starting a book club or take up acting classes.
In addition to doing these things, hiring a divorce attorney can also help baby boomers get through their divorce smoothly and successfully. If you and your spouse are considering divorce, consult with an attorney in your area to determine what steps you should take next.
