Psychosocial Well-Being, Relationship Status, Sexuality, and Gender in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
2024
The Impact of Relationship Status on Mental Health in Older Adults
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Stinchcombe Arne, Hanes Douglas
Primary Institution: University of Ottawa
Hypothesis
The effects of relationship status on psychosocial and mental health outcomes differ by gender and sexuality.
Conclusion
Married individuals experience better mental health outcomes compared to those in other relationship categories, with significant differences based on gender and sexuality.
Supporting Evidence
- Married persons had lower depression scores than other relationship categories.
- Married individuals reported higher social support and subjective status.
- Lesbian/bisexual women experienced less adverse impact from relationship status compared to gay/bisexual men.
Takeaway
Having a partner can make older people feel happier and healthier, but how much it helps can depend on whether they are a man or a woman and who they love.
Methodology
Linear and ordered logistic regressions were conducted, adjusting for age and education.
Participant Demographics
Participants were categorized according to gender and sexuality.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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