Why are the divorce rates for the over 60’s increasing?
Findings have recently been published by the Office for National Statistics which show that divorce rates, particularly for the over 60’s are on the increase . The results show that during 2011, 8.0% of males divorcing and 5.0% of females divorcing were aged 60 and over. This compares with just 4.6% of males and 2.6% of females in 2001”.
So why is divorce increasing for the over 60’s ? Here are our thoughts;
- 60 is the new 40! People are living much longer and so if people are unhappy at 60 then this makes them more willing to make a major change in their lives, appreciating that they may still have decades ahead of them to enjoy.
- There is no longer any social stigma to divorcing. The previous generation often took the view that there was some shame in a marriage that has failed. Nowadays people accept that marital breakdown, whilst always an unhappy event, is a fact of life.
- For many unhappy couples they remain together for the sake of their children. However, it must be remembered that sometimes children can actually be happier when their parents are separated and they have two happy homes rather than one with major problems. However, with the over 60s the children have often flown the nest. It is common then for couples to focus more upon what makes them happy and upon reflection take the sad decision that they would be happier without their partner.
- Couples entering retirement can find it very difficult to deal with the increased time together, without the daily routine of working life. Furthermore, with many pension schemes taking a hit with the current economic climate there is also an increased financial strain on those entering retirement.
There is never a “right” time to divorce but people who, upon careful reflection, feel that they would be happier on their own should not feel afraid to move forward with a divorce and make a fresh start. There is no longer any social stigma with divorce and it need not be a battle. Here at Blacks we see our role as helping people who have decided to separate find a solution which is right for them and their families, ideally without court proceedings. This is why we often advocate collaborative family law and mediation rather than litigation.
Partner
Family Law
PLancaster@LawBlacks.com
0113 227 9285
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Paul Lancaster
