Still more marriages fell apart in the first five years. But in the last decade among those who were divorced, a significant number were in their 40s and 50s. Even for the couples who had been married over 15 years, divorce became an alternative. Many divorces are initiated by women. But men are not shy to ask for a divorce either.
More women are able to work and support themselves.
Longevity has had an affect. Some wish to restructure their lives if they have yet 25 to 30 years to live. They may be able to rely on their parents for part or total financial support as their parents' property and other assets have appreciated considerably over the years. The trends will continue to affect the Japanese families. The increase in the number of people living alone has been reshaping the Japanese families in the last twenty years.