MARITAL STATUS

Of all men whose deaths were registered during 2008 for whom marital status was known, 54% were in a registered marriage at the time of death, 19% were widowed and 14% were never married. In contrast, of all women whose deaths were registered during 2008 for whom marital status was known, 26% were in a registered marriage, 57% were widowed and 8% were never married. These differences are a consequence of the greater longevity of women.

The fact that married people have lower mortality than unmarried people has been observed in many studies over time and in different countries (Lillard & Panis 1996). The reasons for this have been debated for over 100 years (Farr 1858). Two main explanations have been put forward. The first suggests that marriage improves a person's health status, thus reducing the risk of an earlier death. Married people are less likely to participate in risky behaviour and more likely to nurture each other's health through promoting good diet and physical care. The second states that differentials are due to the selection of healthier individuals into marriage. Particularly in a country like Australia, where registered marriage is far from universal, selectivity is likely to be an important factor.

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