Illinois residents who are at ot older than 50 and married might wonder about reports that divorce between older couples is rising. While it is true that the divorce rate for older couples has doubled over the past 30 years, there are factors involved that affect the chance of divorce for those 50 and older.
According to several studies, the divorce rate for couples in this age group is still relatively low, at about half that of couples younger than 50. The reasons for divorce at this age bracket are also different than for younger couples. A report from the National Center for Family and Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University found that factors such owning property together, wealth, whether the couple was in a first time marriage and the quality of the relationship over the years were played an influential role in the divorces of older couples.
The report revealed that owning property together acted as a deterrent from divorce for older couples, as did wealth, since couples with assets of over $250,000 were less likely to divorce. Those in long-term, first-time marriages divorced at a rate of less than half of those who had remarried. Finally, the study also showed that the quality of the relationship for older couples seems to be important, since those who valued the free time they spent together seemed less likely to divorce. For older couples who divorce, there might also be difficult consequences. Both men and women who divorce after they are 50 are at higher risk for financial difficulties and poverty. So financial stability and protection seem to be factors for older marriages to continue.
Older residents who find themselves considering divorce might find the assistance of a lawyer with experience in family law matters beneficial. A lawyer can provide information about state laws and might also help a client negotiate a fair settlement.