Some people in New Orleans may stay in an unhappy marriage for years under the impression that it for the sake of the children. Other times people may be married for many years only to find that once they are empty-nesters or upon retirement that their ideals and goals for their remaining years have changed and they are no longer compatible with one another. It is not so unusual these days for married couples to divorce even if they have been in a long-term marriage. The following are some common reasons why older couples divorce.
One spouse is unfaithful
Infidelity is not limited to younger couples. Even older couples in long term marriages can find that one party has been having an affair. This can be devastating and can ultimately lead to divorce.
Money problems
You may think that couples who have been married a long time have their financial situation figured out, but this is not always the case. According to one survey, 64% of respondents reported that money was a significant stressor. If couples disagree about how to handle their budget this can lead to disagreements and unhappiness even if they have been married to one another for a long time. This may be especially true if one spouse is a “spender,” and the other spouse is a “saver.”
Communication problems
While communication problems can affect couples of any age harmful communication can be especially destructive in a long-term marriage. Problems such as criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling can build resentment and hurt feelings over the years, perhaps even leading couples to simply stop communicating altogether.
Empty-nest syndrome
Having kids keeps a couple busy for many years. In fact, it may not be until the children are grown and out of the house that spouses find that they have been focusing so much on raising their child that they have essentially been living separate lives and have not been connecting with one another. They may realize that that their marriage has been suffering for many years and they want to spend the remainder of their lives as a single individual.
Do not be afraid to end a long-term marriage
Even if you have been married for a long-time no one has to hold on to an unhappy relationship. Divorce, even among older couples, is always an option. Those in New Orleans who want to learn more about divorce may find our firm’s website to be a useful resource.