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Common Reasons for Divorce Among Empty Nesters

The empty nest phase occurs when children leave home to embark on their journeys and can be a
dynamic mix of liberation and challenges for couples. After dedicating decades to parenting and
nurturing their children, many couples eagerly anticipate a newfound sense of freedom and an
opportunity to rekindle their connection. Nevertheless, this transitional stage may also unearth
long-simmering issues lurking beneath the surface for years. Surprisingly, even empty nesters are
not immune to the possibility of divorce.

In this blog post, we'll delve into why divorce can become a reality for empty nesters, shedding light on couples' unique challenges during this pivotal phase of life.

Communication Breakdown
A communication breakdown is one of the most common reasons for divorce among empty
nesters. For many couples, the demands of raising children often precede their relationship.
When children leave home, couples may suddenly face an empty house with a sense of loss and a
lack of shared interests. This void can become glaringly apparent if they haven't maintained
effective communication throughout the years. Couples need to prioritize open and honest
communication to ensure that they remain connected as their roles evolve.
Growing Apart
Empty nesters may discover that they have grown apart over the years. The intense focus on
parenting and the various responsibilities of raising children can sometimes overshadow the
couple's needs and interests. Couples may realize they no longer share the same goals, values, or
hobbies as children move out. This growing disconnect can lead to feelings of loneliness and
dissatisfaction, prompting some couples to consider divorce as a way to pursue individual paths.
Empty Nest Syndrome
Empty nest syndrome is a phenomenon in which parents experience sadness, grief, or even
depression when their children leave home. While this is a normal emotional response, it can
exacerbate existing marital issues. Couples who struggle to cope with the emptiness and
loneliness may find themselves drifting further apart. Seeking therapy or counseling can
effectively address these emotional challenges and strengthen the marital bond.
Rekindling Past Conflicts
The empty nest phase can sometimes bring past conflicts to the surface. Issues that were
temporarily set aside due to the demands of parenting may resurface as couples find themselves
with more time on their hands. Whether unresolved disagreements or long-buried resentments,
these past conflicts can disrupt the harmony in the relationship and lead to divorce if left
unaddressed.
Infidelity
Infidelity can be a challenging issue that arises among empty nesters. With children out of the
house and more free time on their hands, some individuals may seek new connections outside of
their marriage. Infidelity can erode trust and lead to the breakdown of a marriage, making it a
significant factor in divorce among empty nesters. Rebuilding trust through therapy and
communication can be critical in saving a marriage affected by infidelity.
Retirement and Financial Stress
As couples approach retirement age, financial concerns can become a source of tension. Empty
nesters often reassess their financial situation and may need to prepare for retirement due to the expenses associated with raising children. This financial stress can lead to arguments and disagreements, potentially contributing to divorce. Couples need to discuss their financial plans openly and seek professional advice to ensure a secure retirement.

Loss of Identity
Some individuals may struggle with losing identity when their children leave home. For years,
their role as a parent defined much of their identity, and when that role diminishes, they may feel
adrift. This loss of identity can lead to feelings of purposelessness and dissatisfaction within the
marriage. Individuals must explore new interests and passions to rediscover their sense of self
and maintain a healthy relationship with their spouse.
Health Issues
The aging process can bring about health issues that impact marital relationships. Empty nesters
may face significant health challenges, and caring for a spouse with health problems can strain
the marriage. The stress and emotional toll of managing health issues can sometimes lead to
divorce if couples cannot find effective ways to cope and support each other.
Lack of Intimacy
Intimacy is a vital component of any successful marriage. Over the years, the demands of
parenting and busy schedules can lead to a decline in physical and emotional intimacy. When
children leave home, some couples may find it challenging to rekindle the spark in their
relationship. A lack of intimacy can lead to disconnection and dissatisfaction, ultimately leading
to divorce.
Unrealistic Expectations
Empty nesters may have unrealistic expectations about what this phase of life should look like.
Some couples envision it as a time of endless romantic adventures and newfound closeness.
When reality falls short of these expectations, disappointment can set in. Couples must have
realistic expectations and work together to create a fulfilling life as empty nesters.

The empty nest phase of life is a significant transition that can bring both joy and challenges to couples. While divorce is not inevitable, empty nesters need to recognize the potential reasons for divorce and take proactive steps to strengthen their relationship. Open communication, seeking professional help when needed, and working together to navigate the changes that come with an empty nest can help couples maintain a happy and fulfilling marriage as they enter this new chapter of their lives. At Fender Law Firm, we understand the complexities of divorce, and we're here to provide expert guidance and support to individuals and couples facing this challenging decision. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you need legal assistance or advice during your divorce journey. Your future is important to us, and we're here to help you navigate it confidently and clearly.

Divorce after 50: What You Need to Know about Gray Divorce in South Carolina

Gray Divorce

Divorce among older Americans used to be rare. A report from Bowling Green State University showed that between 1990 and 2012, divorce rates dropped among younger adults. But, in all age groups 45 and up, the rate increased significantly. People aged 55-64 were more than twice as likely to divorce in 2012 as they’d been in 1990, and those 65 and older were three times as likely to divorce.

The increase in divorce rate was much more significant for older women than for older men.

A separate report based on data from the U.S. Vital Statistics Report and the American Community Survey showed that the divorce rate among women aged 50 and older more than doubled from 1990 to 2017. The rates varied significantly from state to state, with South Carolina falling near the middle of the country and close to the national median.

“Gray Divorce” is Increasing in the US

Gray Divorce / Sun City Divorce

The increase in divorce rate was much more significant for older women than for older men.

If you’re considering divorce or have been served with divorce papers, it’s in your best interest to get reliable advice from a veteran Sun City divorce lawyer as soon as possible. You can schedule a consultation right now by calling 843-379-4888.

Why are More Older Couples Divorcing?

There are many reasons older Americans are choosing to divorce more frequently than they did in the past. Of course, the decision to end a marriage is a very personal one, and the exact combination of factors differs from couple to couple. Some of these factors include:

Americans are living longer and staying healthy longer. So, the decision to divorce at 50–or even 60+--means something very different today than it did decades ago. In earlier generations, someone in their 50s or 60s might have considered it “too late” to get divorced. But now, many people live active, healthy lives well into their 70s and 80s (or beyond). That means there’s likely plenty of time to pursue the life you want if you end your marriage after 50. And, perhaps decades to be unhappy if you stay in a bad relationship.
It’s not uncommon for couples to hold out until the kids grow up to separate, even if they’ve been unhappy for a long time. Across the past several decades, people have started having children later, which means they’re older when the kids reach adulthood. And, kids are taking longer to move out. For those born in the early 80s, the median age for leaving the family home was 19. The Great Recession changed all that, and in 2017 the median had shifted to age 23.5.
Divorce no longer carries the social stigma it once did. People who were 55 in 1990 were teens in the late 1950s and early 1960s, when divorce was generally discouraged. Those who are 55 today were teens in the 1980s–a very different era with different views. Today’s post-50 adults grew up more independent, more accustomed to relying on their own judgment versus social norms, and aware of a much wider range of possibilities for their lives. And, our current culture says it’s okay to value your own happiness and expect more from life.
More two-income households have changed the equation when it comes to separating the household and dividing assets. It’s less likely that one spouse is entirely financially dependent on the other, and more likely that a spouse who was a stay-at-home parent has education and/or work experience to help jump start a return to the workforce.

People aged 50 and up with college degrees are more likely to divorce than those with only some college education or those who have a high school education or less, and that’s especially true for women.

Regardless of your reasons for seeking a divorce in later life, it’s important that you know your rights, understand what to expect, and know how to protect yourself.