For many people, marriage is the definitive consolidation of the relationship. A promise to love, care and respect each other until death do you part. But this is not always the case. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), in 2021 there were 86,851 divorces in Spain.
These marital dissolutions can occur at any point in the relationship. Even after a long life as a couple. According to the INE, the highest number of divorces between spouses of different sex took place in the age group between 40 and 49 years. Likewise, 32.0% of divorces occurred after 20 years of marriage or more.
Although marriages in the third age can be assumed to be solid and firm, separation can also occur at this vital stage for various reasons. Many changes take place in old age and this can take its toll on the relationship. For example, following retirement, people have more free time to spend with their spouse, which may show that the bond was not as close as it seemed. It can also happen that the flame of love goes out due to the passage of time and monotony. Or that your interests change and you discover that you no longer have as much in common.
Although the causes of the divorce will greatly influence the way in which it will take place, it is important to try to make it amicable. The reproaches, the blame or the confrontations are worthless. If possible, it is much better to end the marriage amicably.
Once the separation is effective, you have to give yourself time to overcome that duel. But you can't let pain take control of your life. In this sense, it will be essential to seek the support of your loved ones –children, grandchildren, friends–, or even go to a psychologist to help you face this new chapter of your life. Talking about how you feel will make you feel better and get over it. In fact, surrounding yourself with other people is key in order to avoid unwanted loneliness, the consequences of which are very negative.
Try to stay active and take care of your health, both physical and mental. It is a good time to start practicing a new activity, sign up for workshops, courses, excursions or the Imserso. Have you always wanted to dance salsa? cheer up! It will be an excellent hobby, you will put yourself in a good mood and you will meet new people.
Finally, that your marriage is over does not mean that love relationships are out of your reach. If you are ready and want to find a new partner, or forge new friendships, banish insecurities and prejudices and get to work.
