Gray divorce is the term for couples over the age of 5 who choose to end their marriages. In most cases, couples of that age don’t have to argue about custody or visitation of their children as they have typically reached the age of majority. However, this doesn’t mean that the split will be easy on those children or that you’ll be able to reach a divorce settlement outside of a Florida court.
Grandchildren may be involved
If your kids have their own children, they will likely want to have a relationship with their grandparents. Of course, if you and your spouse are living in separate homes, it may be harder for everyone to get together. Even if your grandkids don’t necessarily care about seeing you, your own kids may lament the fact that it’s difficult or impossible to spend holidays or other special events together.
Your kids may feel forced to choose
Parents of young children are supposed to make sure that they keep their kids away from their personal lives. However, you may not necessarily feel like you have to spare the feelings of an adult son or daughter. Ultimately, your kids may feel as if they have to choose between your feelings and the possibility of having a relationship with both parents.
Your kids may become caretakers
If you lose your house in a divorce, you may feel as if your kids will let you stay at their place. While they may accept you for a short period of time, there is a chance that you might overstay your welcome. Furthermore, you may expose your kids to the effects of your emotional baggage, which could further strain relations between yourself and adult children.
A divorce may have a negative impact on both you and your children regardless of their ages. However, you may be able to lessen the impact on your family by retaining the family home or asking for alimony as part of a divorce settlement. Doing so may reduce the risk that you become a burden to your kids.