“Gray Divorce” & Divorce Over age 50

Rates of “gray divorce” — couples 50 and older — are surging, with divorce among adults 65 and up tripling since the 1990s. A recent New York Times essay by Cathi Hanauer offers a thoughtful window into why.

Hanauer describes ending a long, mostly peaceful marriage in midlife, not out of crisis, but because the relationship no longer fit who the partners had become. Interestingly, she and her husband have not legally divorced, largely for health-insurance and tax reasons, a choice we see many older couples increasingly make.

Her experience mirror realities we often see here in San Juan County, Whatcom and Skagit:

• Women tend to experience greater financial strain after divorce, while
• Men more often face social isolation and a shrinking support network.

For folks in the PNW navigating midlife separation — whether through mediation, a more collaborative approach, or formal court proceedings — thoughtful planning and clear legal guidance make all the difference.

At Lighthill Law, we help individuals and families across the San Juan Islands, in Whatcom and Skagit Counties approach these transitions with clarity, dignity, and long-term stability in mind. If you’re considering a separation or divorce, or need advice about your options, we’re here to help.