Happy spouse obviously makes for a more pleasant marriage. But what if it could also boost your health?
A recent study from the American Psychological Association examined a survey of 1,981 middle-aged heterosexual couples. The data revealed that, over time, happy spouse had a higher likelihood of reporting better health.
Specifically, the study looked at survey results from couples ages 50 to 94. Participants shared details on their happiness, health and physical activity levels spanning six years. The couples discussed both their own health and concerns about the health of their spouse.
“This finding significantly broadens assumptions about the relationship between happiness and health, suggesting a unique social link,” said William Chopik, PhD. “Simply having a happy partner may enhance health as much as striving to be happy oneself.”
Previous research suggests happy people are generally healthy people. But Chopik wanted to take it one step further by exploring the health effects of interpersonal relationships. He said there are at least three potential reasons why having a happy partner might enhance a person’s health, irrespective of one’s own happiness