In fact, 'grey divorce' - when a couple over the age of 50 decide to split after decades together - is a growing phenomenon. Not just the 'empty nest': Common triggers for later-life separationThere are several reasons that might lead a couple to divorce after seemingly spending half a lifetime together. The term 'grey divorce' refers to a long term-marriage split when the spouses are over 50"When the children grow up and leave home, the couple faces the challenge of reconnecting with each other. Gender differences in divorce: Exploring motivations after 50There is no exact data on the rates of "grey divorce", but Girona says there are some differences in motivations between men and women. © Getty Images/iStockphoto Men and women often have different reasons for seeking a 'grey divorce'And what about women?