Divorce could prove devastating at any age, but when you dissolve your marriage after 50, you may face unique challenges. Do you know what those hurdles are and how to overcome them?
Forbes offers tips for thriving after divorce after your 50s. Help yourself to peace of mind as you approach your golden years as a single person.
Your spouse could turn into a different person during the divorce
You could look at your soon-to-be-former spouse and not recognize the person you married. Sometimes, divorcing spouses throw out the love and affection they displayed during their marriage and turn vicious during the divorce. Expect the unexpected and plan for the worst.
Your financial health must take priority
Maybe you grew accustomed to living in a two-income household. With your divorce, you must think about what financial security looks like for you and how to survive. This becomes especially important for the person who did not act as the primary earner in the marriage. You may need to consider selling the marital home and downsizing rather than fighting for the property. If you want to keep the home, find out how much you should expect to pay for upkeep and maintenance and whether you have the financial resources to cover those costs on your income alone.
You may want to time signing the divorce papers after settling financial matters
You may want to give your current partner the benefit of the doubt about paying off joint debt or supporting you financially post-divorce, but consider waiting to sign the divorce papers until later. Specifically, wait until you get everything promised to you in writing.
Life could become better than ever after divorce. You have more options and influence than you may realize.