Separating from your partner at any age can be stressful and feel as if you are on an emotional rollercoaster at times.
Getting divorced later in life can arguably leave you with some more hurdles to navigate than those who separate earlier in life, and of course, a long marriage where you have built a life with someone over many years can take longer to recover from.
Our specialist Divorce Lawyers share some tips which will hopefully prove useful to anyone anticipating, going through, or recuperating from a divorce in their 60’s…
#1 Stay Positive
However difficult things may seem whilst navigating a separation, things will improve. There is life after divorce. It is understandable to feel a range of emotions during the divorce process and afterwards. Surround yourself with positive influences and try to take each day as it comes. Setting yourself some goals or plans for the future can help you see the light at the end of the tunnel on those darker days.
#2 Coping With Loneliness
It is not uncommon for divorced couples to feel lonely after the end of a marriage, after all, they have spent years, sometimes decades living under the same roof. It is important to keep yourself busy, stay social as much as you can and take this time to start up new hobbies or take up activities that you always wanted to try.
#3 Tackling Finances
Financial issues should be tackled head on. On the one hand you may find yourself in a stronger position divorcing later in life when more of the mortgage is paid off and you have some investments put aside. However, with fewer years of earning potential ahead and retirement approaching you may be concerned about how you can continue the lifestyle you are accustomed to. Seeing a financial advisor will help immensely and whilst you may need to pay a modest fee for some initial advice, there is no price that can be put on having peace of mind and a robust financial plan to see you through to retirement.
#4 Protecting Yourself
Should you find love again after divorcing you may wish to act cautiously and put in place some protection for your peace of mind. This could be in the form of a cohabitation agreement, which is a great way of setting financial boundaries if moving someone into a property that you own. Another option would be a pre-nuptial agreement or post-nuptial agreement which can safeguard certain assets ensuring wealth passes to your children when you die. You should also re-write or amend your will following on from divorce to ensure that your estate will be dealt with in the way to would like.
#5 Re-Engage With Yourself
When you are married for a long time you can lose touch with your own identity. Take time to re-evaluate your life. What are your goals? Is there anything you have yet to achieve? What hobbies did you never have the time to take up? Did you partner hold you back from anything? Give yourself time to figure out what you want to do with your new life and set some small goals to keep you focused.
#6 The Family Home
Many people wish to hold onto their family home if they can afford to do so. Your home, particularly if you have lived much of your life there, can hold some cherished memories but it is important to try your best to view the home as a financial asset when it comes to divorce. Whilst your property may be valuable to you, pensions may be worth more, so it is important not to write off other assets in favour of remaining in the family home without careful consideration. Often at this age people look to downsize, you may find that now is a good time to invest in a smaller home that will be easier to manage and run, giving you some savings for a rainy day.
#7 Ask For Help
Don’t struggle alone. It can be daunting living alone after divorce but don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family or professionals. Whether is it with DIY, organising your utility bills or for emotional support, always reach out rather than suffer in silence.
#8 Take Care of Your Mental Health
When going through life-changing events, such as divorce, it is essential to keep your personal wellbeing in mind. This will help you navigate the divorce process and also help you to recover from your separation. If you find yourself suffering from stress or depression, address some areas of life that you can control. Ensure you are getting a good amount of sleep, eat healthily, exercise, get plenty of fresh air and socialise. Avoid drinking too much alcohol and try to practice some self-care that will help get you through turbulent times. If you are becoming overwhelmed seek advice from your GP or consider seeing a counsellor.
Divorce Advice
For further information on divorce or separation, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our specialist Family Law team.
Call us on 01256 844888, email enquiries@lambbrooks.com or speak to our online chat assistant, who is available at any time of day, including evenings and weekends.
We understand that the prospect of divorce can be worrying and overwhelming. Our aim is to explain the process in plain English, inform you of where you stand and ensure you feel confident in finding a way forward that works for you and your family.
Other Articles You May Be Interested in Reading:
7 Ways to Thrive After Divorce
Considerations for Divorce Later in Life
A Quick Guide to Life After Divorce
The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice. The law may have changed since this article was published. Readers should not act on the basis of the information included and should take appropriate professional advice upon their own particular circumstances.