Study: Divorce More Likely for 50+ Couples When Wife is Ill

europe - New research from University of Florence shows higher divorce rates among 50-64 couples if the woman falls ill. Findings apply across Europe.

Research on Divorce Among 50+ Couples

A recent study by the University of Florence revealed that couples aged 50-64 are more likely to divorce when the woman's health deteriorates.

Trends in Divorce Among Older Couples

• Research tracked over 25,000 heterosexual couples aged 50 and above in 27 European countries for 18 years.
• Divorce rates have surged among 50+ couples in Europe in recent decades.

Impact of Health on Divorce

• Couples aged 50-64 tend to separate faster if the woman faces health issues compared to when the man does.
• Study highlights a 60% higher risk of divorce when only the woman is in poor health.

Insights from the Researcher

Researcher Giammarco Alderotti suggests that men struggle more with caregiving roles in marriages, potentially leading to separations.

Factors Influencing Divorce

• Financial dependency of women on their husbands and women's struggles with daily tasks like household chores contribute to higher divorce rates.
• Depression emerges as a significant factor for divorces among couples aged 65 and above.