More older people getting a divorce

Older couples in Missouri may be getting divorced at a higher rate than they were in earlier decades. In 2014, it was twice as common for people at or over the age of 50 to get a divorce than it was 24 years earlier. The rate was even higher for people older than 65. Experts theorize that divorce is more socially acceptable than it was in the past, so when children grow up and leave home and couples find they have little in common, it may be the next step.

However, divorce for older people might be particularly complicated simply because after so many years together, it can be difficult to separate deeply entwined lives and finances. People who divorce after retirement may be facing higher expenses on a fixed income. One person may want to keep the home but might not be able to afford it.

Instead, people may want to focus on finding a living situation they are comfortable with. More older people who divorce are choosing to share a home with others in their situation. People might also need to consider getting a job even if they are past conventional retirement age. This might be difficult, and staying physically fit can help.

In fact, a retirement account may be another thing that is an issue in a divorce. A person who has worked throughout their life with a spouse who has not worked outside the home might find their retirement savings halved. Alternately, a spouse who has never worked outside the home might be concerned about how they will find work. They might want the help of their family law attorney in seeking an alimony order while they are going to school or training for a job.