Women who divorce over the age of sixty: Over sixty and starting over

Abstract

Divorce among older women is a growing social phenomenon about which little is known. The qualitative case study method was employed to determine issues relevant to women experiencing late-life divorce in order to: provide a basis of knowledge about these women; to identify areas for further research; and, to yield information that would facilitate the development of mental health programs intended to serve this population. Using open-ended questions during tape recorded interviews, the perceptions of five women who divorced over the age of sixty were elicited. The areas of concern within the broad categories of physical and mental health, family and social relationships, and economic and legal issues were identified and then compared and contrasted to data gathered by previous researchers. Recommendations were made for future research and a model for a cooperative community mental health program was endorsed.