Divorce rates rise for over 60s, but fall for rest of population

The divorce rates for the over 60s in England and Wales are rising, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) have said.

The trend, which began in 1991, is in contrast with the falling divorce rates for the rest of the population.

The ONS say that one explanation is simply that we have an aging population; there are more people aged over 60 than there were before.

Other factors being considered as part explanation is the loss of stigma of divorce and more financial independence for women.

In 1991 there were 1.6 divorces per 1,000 married men aged over 60. By 2011, the latest year for available figures, this had risen to 2.3.

For women there were 1.2 divorces per 1,000 married women over 60 in 1991, which rose to 1.6 in 2011.

But, overall divorce rates in England and Wales have been falling since the mid-1990s.

Nicola Whitley, specialist family law and divorce solicitor at Swain & Co, says, “There are many pressures facing older couples, and many reasons why they may seek a divorce. Divorce at any time of life can be a stressful and emotional time. We urge people to seek legal advice about their rights and options when facing the breakdown of a marriage.”