The surprising reason 'grey divorce' is rising among Australians

A survey of more than 1200 older Aussies has revealed 32 per cent of people aged between 50 and 60 years old have considered separation or divorce and that was up from previous years, according to the data from Australian Seniors.

Empty nest syndrome was the main reason for almost half of later-life separations but the strain of financial pressures and retirement adjustments also played a role.

According to respondents, the biggest challenges of a grey divorce were asset division, financial instability and emotional impacts.

While a quarter of respondents had seriously considered separation, that number dropped to just 15 per cent for those aged 70 and above.

Changing needs around intimacy, adjusting to retirement and physical health concerns were among the top reasons behind the strain on the relationships of older Australians.

"Around 1 in 6 individuals have engaged in discussions about divorce or separation with their partners in the past, ultimately choosing to remain together," the report said.

Those who stayed together said they worked on open communication, regular health check ups, getting physically active and picking up shared hobbies and activities.

And 85 per cent of people aged over 50 in relationships were happy with their existing partners.

Trust, mutual respect, a sense of humour and emotional intelligence were the main factors for a happy, long term relationship.

Outside their relationships, a growing number of older adults enjoyed being single after the age of 50.

According to the survey, 46 per cent of single respondents preferred solo life and 12 per cent had casual relationships.

More than half reported being content with life, despite the absence of a partner.

Single people reported less stress, independence, more financial control and personal space as positives.

But six in 10 people struggled with loneliness and the fear of ageing alone.