The Rise of 'Grey Divorce': Why More Couples Over 50 Are Parting Ways
With Sharon Osbourne’s 33-year marriage to rocker husband Ozzy in apparent disrepair, the 63-year-old TV personality realizes it is a life-changing event — but perhaps not an uncommon one.
If Sharon and Ozzy can't work it out, they will join a growing trend of "grey divorces." Currently, one in four divorcing couples is doing so past age 50.
Psychiatrist Dr. Michelle Cohen told Inside Edition: "People are starting to divorce over age 50 now because there are so many things they are realizing. They look back, now that the kids are gone, they think 'Maybe I am not getting along as well as I thought I was.'"
Other high profile couples are joining the ranks of grey divorces after decades of marriage.
Former Vice President Al Gore and wife, Tipper, separated in 2010 after 40 years together.
Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger ended their 25-year marriage in 2011.
Singer Toni Tennille split from her "Captain" hubby, Daryl Dragon, in 2014 after 39 years of marriage.
Tennille, 76, said she made the life-altering decision after consulting with her therapist.
Read: Kelly Ripa Takes On-Air Jab At Michael Strahan About His Divorces
"She said: 'Toni, this is your life. The fans, yes, some of them will be disappointed. Some even sad. They will go on with their lives. You have the right to your own happiness.'"
Deirdre Bair, 80, the author of Calling It Quits: Late-Life Divorce And Starting Over, told IE that the decision is often made by the woman in the relationship.
"Many of them said they felt adrift, they felt like 'what do I do now? I have been part of a couple for so many years, suddenly, I am on my own.'"
Watch: Drew Barrymore Looks Happy Promoting Wine After Announcing Divorce