The goal of a grey divorce is to redefine what it means to be happy and fulfilled in our older years, not just to dissolve a marriage. The increase in grey divorces is not merely a fad; rather, it is a reflection of how our conceptions of love, commitment, and personal fulfillment change with time.
The news that AR Rahman has chosen to divorce his wife, Saira Banu, after nearly 30 years of marriage has shocked the music industry. Even though these circumstances are clearly difficult, they serve as a reminder of how crucial it is to handle divorce with dignity and compassion.
Contrary to popular belief, divorce does not always have to be characterized by animosity or rage; couples can divorce amicably if they adopt the correct attitude. After twenty years of marriage, he went through his own separation, but he remained friendly with his ex-wife. The fact that most couples today choose to split after the age of 50—a practice known as “Grey Divorce”—is even more surprising.
Over the past ten years, there has been a notable change in the divorce environment. Not only is the “grey divorce” phenomenon—couples divorcing after the age of 50—a trend, but it’s evolving into a societal movement that is changing how we view partnerships in our later years and upending conventional ideas of ageing together. Divorces among long-term married couples have increased, causing what is known as a “relationship revolution” in older life, but divorce rates among younger age groups have steadied or decreased.
According to, MD (A.M.), psychotherapist, coach, and healer, founder and director of Gateway of Healing, the following is a list of factors contributing to the rise in “grey divorce.”
● Changing social dynamics:
This tendency has been significantly impacted by changing societal standards. The 50+ generation of today is more financially independent, healthier, and more active than in the past. “I want more out of life” and “We’ve grown in different directions” are common statements we hear in therapy sessions. Due to shifting gender roles and financial freedom, women in particular are starting these separations more frequently.
● Technology’s role:
Research shows that technology has evolved into an unexpected catalyst. Social media and dating applications have created new connections and lessened the anxiety associated with starting anew. The idea that passion is reserved for the young is being challenged by clinical observations, which suggest that many people are re-establishing relationships with past lovers or meeting new mates online.
● Financial implications:
In every facet of human existence, economic considerations play a significant influence. Due of the substantial riches that the baby boomer generation has amassed, divorce is now more financially doable. However, complicated financial issues are sometimes associated with grey divorce, especially when it comes to property splits and retirement funds.
● Impact on family structures:
The family dynamics created by grey divorce are distinct. The separation of parents is generally more difficult for adult children than for younger ones. During therapy sessions, families are often seen struggling with grandparenting, holiday planning, and redistributing family duties.
● Cultural shift:
The greatest significant change is probably in the way society perceives marriage. Staying together “for the sake of the children” or “till death do us part” is becoming less common in favour of “life satisfaction prioritisation.” The question, “Is this how I want to spend my remaining years?” is becoming more and more common.
● Healthcare considerations:
Health-related concerns frequently affect decisions on grey divorce. Relationship pressure might result from lengthy caregiving duties, conflicting perspectives on ageing, and health management. Differing opinions on retirement living choices have caused couples to split up, and health priorities.
● Future trends:
There are no indications that this tendency will slow. Given the current situation, we can anticipate that the number of grey divorces will continue to rise, along with the introduction of new services and support networks tailored to this group. It is clearly clear that professional divorce coaches, therapists, and support groups are emerging to serve this demographic.
There are benefits as well as challenges associated with this expanding phenomena. Grey divorce offers a new type of freedom—the ability to reconstruct life in its final chapters—even though it can be emotionally and financially taxing.