Marriage does not impact men and women in the same way as they age. A biological mystery? Not quite. A recent Canadian study reveals some surprising differences.
Married men tend to age better, but for women, things are more complicated. Their marital status doesn't appear to have a significant influence on their aging.
Illustrative image Pixabay
According to this study, which involved over 7,000 Canadians, being married promotes optimal aging in men, significantly improving their chances compared to men who never married. However, the study also reveals that single women age better than those who are widowed or divorced.
Why the difference? Marriage seems to provide men with important support. Encouragements to quit smoking, invitations to participate in sports, or simple reminders to see a doctor—small actions which may explain their healthier aging.
Women, on the other hand, seem to benefit from broader social networks, often extending beyond the marital context. These networks, composed of friends, family members, and community connections, play an important role by offering emotional support, regardless of marital status.
This emotional support, coming from multiple sources, might compensate for the absence of a life partner, making the influence of marriage on their aging process much less significant. Indeed, regular interactions with people outside the couple's relationship can provide women with a sense of connection and well-being, essential for their mental and physical health in the long term.
Regardless of marriage, the study highlights the importance of social relationships and a healthy lifestyle to age well: people who are socially active and physically fit tend to age better. Loneliness is, therefore, an aggravating factor in aging. Regular contact with friends, family, and neighbors strengthens well-being and helps reduce feelings of isolation.
For the study's authors, it is essential to adopt good lifestyle habits, no matter your age. Quitting smoking or maintaining regular physical activity remains beneficial at any stage of life. These findings underline the importance of understanding the aging differences between men and women to better support them, and may inspire new social and health policies.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND