There are many reasons behind the rise in elder divorce across the globe. Regardless of those reasons, many couples over 50 are choosing to go their separate ways.
A large portion of these spouses also happen to be parents. More often than not, their children left the nest long ago. That is why many people believe there is no reason to consider co-parenting in elder divorces – but could it actually help to do so?
No legal terms are necessary
When you have adult children, there is no need to create a parenting plan or custody schedule under North Carolina law. These arrangements are only necessary when you have minor children and are still legally responsible for them and their wellbeing. You and your ex-spouse will not have to actively co-parent to make critical decisions about your child’s life.
However, the co-parenting relationship may still matter. The actual act of parenting might not be necessary anymore, but you and your spouse still play important roles in your family’s life.
The relationship can still impact the family
Your children may no longer live with you or rely on you to protect their best interests. However, Psychology Today reported that the foundation of co-parenting remains important even for adult children. The report found:
- Adult children still want their parents to have an amicable relationship
- The conflict between parents can still affect adult children
Age does not matter when it comes to the effects of parental conflict. Adult children may still feel stuck in the middle, or as if they have to choose one parent over the other.
The stress that conflict causes can place a lot of pressure on the whole family. Therefore, an actual co-parenting plan may not be necessary in these cases, but parents should consider the fundamentals of their continuing relationship after the divorce.
You will always be a parent
The moment your child was born, you knew it would change your life. You became a parent, and that role does not end even when your child becomes an adult.
Navigating an elder divorce can be challenging. A qualified elder divorce attorney may be able to help. Even so, it is still important to prioritize your family as you work through the process and move into the future.