New figures published this week by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal that marriage among over-65s has increased by nearly 50 per cent.
The research indicates that the importance of marriage is being increasingly recognised, perhaps due to growing concerns that cohabiting couples are not legally protected in the event of separation or death.
The statistics show a 47 per cent increase in the opposite-sex marriage rate in couples over the age of 65 between 2009 and 2014.
This represents 7,005 marriages in 2014, compared to 4,704 in 2009.
Commenting on the study, Dr Kate Davidson, senior visiting fellow at the University of Surrey and member of the British Society of Gerontology, said: “Most of the marriages will be remarriages from divorces. It’s the greater availability of women who are willing to take a second chance.
“Men have always been willing to take a second chance. Women can be attracted by the ideas of security, emotional, financial and public. The women I talked to wanted someone to go out with as they didn’t feel they could go out on their own whereas the men want someone to come home to. It’s a win-win if you find the right person.”
Unsurprisingly, the marriage figures for under-20s dropped by around a quarter (27 per cent) during the same five year period, while all other age groups under the age of 65 remained the same.
Nicola Haines, of the ONS, said: “A possible reason for the increase in marriage rates for the 65-and-over age group is due to increased life expectancy meaning that people are living longer. Consequently there is more opportunity for marriages to end in divorce and divorcees may then go on to remarry.”
Those hesitant to marry always have the option of a prenuptial agreement – a formal written agreement which dictates how assets will be split. For expert advice on all things marriage, including prenuptial agreements, contact MFG today.
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