Why are More Women Over 50 Getting Divorced in Florida?

For the past several years, there has been a trend of married couples over the age of 50 getting divorced. Although divorce rates among younger people have been on the decline, divorces among those aged 65 and older have been steadily increasing during the same time period. In the majority of cases, it is the women who initiate the divorce in these cases. While the reasons older women choose to end their marriage are often similar to those of younger generations, there are some factors that apply specifically to older couples. Below, our Tampa divorce attorney explains in further detail.

Changes in Society 

Older women were raised in a society where getting married was almost mandatory. They grew up assuming they would marry, have children, and raise a household. Over the past several decades, women have gained more respect in the workforce and many new rights, as well. Although women may have had to once rely on a husband for financial security, that is no longer the case. Women today have more career options and are often self-sufficient and so, initiating divorce does not seem as intimidating as it once did.

In addition to these changes, women faced increased scrutiny by society when they got divorced and they were often seen as failures. Women today realize they have many choices and with divorce being more common, there is no longer a stigma attached to it.

Longer Life Expectancies

The average life expectancy for women today is 82, while on average, males live to 77 years of age. At the age of 50 years old, many women realize that they still have a lot of life to live and they want to do so happily, instead of staying in an unhappy marriage. Several decades ago, people may have thought that once they were over 50 years of age, they were too old for divorce but that is no longer the case today.

An Empty Nest

It is not uncommon for married couples to agree to stay together for the children even if they no longer enjoy being together. After the children grow up and move out, a couple may find that there is no reason for them to stay together. For women who left the workforce to maintain a home and raise the children may find being an empty nester particularly difficult as they realize they have little in common with their spouse.

Lack of Connection

As a couple gets older together, they experience many losses, illnesses and failures as well as celebrations and successes. It is critical that both spouses try to maintain a connection as they go through life’s ups and downs together. When women feel as though their spouses are not putting in as much effort as them to keep their connection, they may simply give up.

Our Divorce Attorney in Tampa Can Help with Your Case

Whether you are thinking about getting divorced or you have just been served with papers, you need legal help. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa divorce attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and help ensure it is as easy as possible for you. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to request a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help. Se Habla Espanol.

Source:

abcnews.go.com/US/gray-divorce-rates-rise-women-open-becoming-single/story?id=116371849