Marriage improves men's health but not women's: new evidence from Canadian scientists

However, a new study by Canadian scientists from the University of Toronto has found that the health effects of family life depend on gender.

The findings, published in the journal International Social Work, show that men derive more health benefits from marriage than women.

The study involved 7,641 people between the ages of 45 and 85. Participants described their health, quality of life, marital status and experiences of marriage, divorce or losing a partner. The results showed that married men were more likely to age comfortably and without serious health conditions compared to those who had never been married.

According to the researchers, marriage can motivate men to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which reduces the risks of diseases such as dementia and cardiovascular problems. Living together can encourage the avoidance of bad habits and regular exercise, which has a positive effect on the health of the spouses.

However, the picture was different for women. There was little difference in health between married and unmarried women. Moreover, those who had never married were twice as likely to age successfully as respondents who were divorced or widowed.

Researchers also found that socialising with family and friends, eating right and avoiding bad habits help older people cope better with the ageing process.

These factors are important for both men and women, but gender differences need to be taken into account when designing support programmes for older people.

The results of the study emphasise the need to consider gender differences when planning support for older people, especially those who have never been married or who have experienced divorce or the loss of a partner.