Married women generally live longer than single women, a trend consistently observed in demographic studies. This longevity advantage for married females is significant, highlighting the protective effects often associated with marriage.
Understanding the Longevity Gap
Research indicates a measurable difference in life expectancy between married and single women. Married females tend to have the longest lifespans among women with varying marital statuses.
Here's a breakdown of the observed difference:
| Marital Status | Life Expectancy Trend | Average Longevity Gap (compared to singles) |
|---|---|---|
| Married Women | Live the longest | 3.5 – 5.5 years longer |
| Single Women | Shorter lifespan | N/A |
This substantial gap suggests that marriage provides a protective effect, contributing to a longer life for women. The benefits associated with being married or cohabiting appear to contribute to increased longevity.
The Role of Cohabitation
Beyond formal marriage, cohabitation also plays a role in influencing life expectancy for women. Studies show that the largest longevity differences are often found between married or cohabiting women and widowed women. This implies that cohabitation can offer similar protective benefits to marriage for females, contributing to a longer lifespan compared to being single or widowed.
Broader Trends in Marital Status and Longevity
The protective effect of partnership, whether through marriage or cohabitation, extends to both men and women. For men, the positive impact of cohabitation and marriage on life expectancy has seen a substantial increase over time. This indicates a broader societal trend where stable partnerships are linked to improved health outcomes and increased longevity across genders.
