There are surprising facts about remarriage in older adults. It is on the rise for those in the U.S. ages 55 and over, and occurs more frequently with advancing years. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2013, two-thirds or 67% of previously married adults had remarried, while in 1960, less than 55% of those 55+ remarried. Among the 65+ age group, the percentage jumped from 34% in 1950 to 50% in 2013.
Other facts to consider:
- more men remarry than women: in 2013, 64% of men remarried while 52% of women did (though this is less pronounced in younger and middle-aged adults)
- among different ethnic groups, more Whites are likely to remarry than Hispanic, Blacks or Asian
- those born in the U.S. are more likely to remarry than those born outside of the U.S., though this gap is narrowing in recent decades: in 2013, 58% (native) vs. 51% (foreign born), and in 1960, 58% vs. 40%.
The trend toward more remarriage in older adults in not surprising given the increases in longevity and better health. Further, an inverse of this same trend is also true: increasing lifespans may also be contributing to an increase in divorces as people realize they have more years ahead. And, those living longer may be seeking greater fulfillment in that extra time.
