This term is becoming popular among older couples these days. Recently there were speculations about Aishwarya and Abhishek's marriage, that they are going for a grey divorce.
This trend is taking a toll on various elderly couples who are ending their marriage. In this article, we will discuss the different aspects of grey divorce.
What is grey divorce?
Grey divorce is a divorce growing popular among older couples in the age group of 50s. In this type of divorce, the couples separate themselves after a long marriage.
This divorce is a kind of divorce where there has been a doubt from 1990. This divorce is gaining popularity in the US.
Causes of grey divorce
There is no single reason for divorces. Multiple factors contribute to this type of divorce.
Changing attitude towards marriage
Many older couples have married each other over the decades. And they see societal and lack of interest in the relationship, so they end the marriage, if it does not fulfil the requirements.
Increased life expectancy
With the advancement of medical sciences, the elderly couple are living a healthy and fruitful life. They need a break from their life and want to pursue their interests and hobbies.
Increased financial independence
The couples are now gaining financial independence. Both are working for their livelihood. Women are earning and living a good time and they do not have to depend on their husbands. This has made it easier for older couples to end their marriage without worries.
Boredom and dissatisfaction
For some elderly couples the marriages have become toxic. After living for so many years, they have experienced boredom and dissatisfaction.
As they approach retirement, they experience the fact that they have missed opportunities and fun. They conclude with a grey divorce.
The implication of grey divorce
Increased financial burden
Many elderly couples have not planned financially and they mess up with their lives. They do not know where to go and find solace. The solution is not known, and they end up their marriage.
Decreased support networks
Many elderly couples are emotionally and financially dependent on their partner. With divorce, this emotional and mental support is lost. And this can affect their mental and emotional health.
Increased loneliness and isolation
This divorce can increase loneliness and mental isolation in older couples. If they do not have children and close relatives to support them. This factor can lead to couple fights.
Solution
As the trend of grey divorce is increasing, the older couple should take some time and think twice before taking this step.
Here are some points
Communicate regularly
Regular and frequent talks avoid conflicts between the couple. The couples should make a habit of talking frequently. This avoids conflicts and bitterness which is engulfing them. As Fred Rogers has said “Listening is one of the most important things we can do for one another. If we care, we can listen.”
Therapy
Couples can seek counselling sessions or therapies if they are experiencing difficulties in their relationships. They can seek their advice and support to sort out the problem.
Set realistic expectations
Some couples set very unrealistic expectations. Few couples set very high expectations after retirement, but they should live in reality. Normal expectations can reduce the conflict and the probability of divorce.
Plan
The couples should sit together and cast a journey for their future. They should plan for their future and set realistic goals for their future.
Shared interest
They should cultivate common interests and share a good bond with their partner. For example, if one partner likes travelling the other partner should accompany.
Maintain physical intimacy
Being physical with your partner also sorts out many misunderstandings.
Conclusion
As the grey divorce is gaining momentum, couples should not go with the wind. They should remain in control and respect each other's feelings. Divorce is not a good feeling, it is rather a very depressing act.
They should rather talk to each other and try to understand each other. Cultivate common interests and try to fulfill them. Realistic planning and common communication with each other develop a strong relationship. Any kind of divorce whether grey or white is not good for any relationship.
Embarrassing self-care and seeking outside help can foster a healthy relationship. The relationship should be so strong that no outside pressure or any other compulsion can forecast divorce. Couples should invest emotionally in one another and seek happiness.
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