Depression-free life expectancy after widowhood, separation and divorce among community-dwelling elderly population: Results from the US Health and Retirement Study

This study explores the impact of marital status changes on mental health, particularly depression-free life expectancy (Dep-FLE), in the elderly population using data from the Health and Retirement Study in the US. The research analyzes how remaining married, becoming widowed, or experiencing divorce affects Dep-FLE in individuals aged 50 and older. Results reveal that married men at 50 can expect 25.1 years without depressive symptoms, whereas widowed and divorced men have lower Dep-FLE at 21.9 and 20.8 years, respectively. Widowed women can expect 25.7 Dep-FLE years, similar to married women (25.3 years), but divorced women have 2.1 fewer Dep-FLE years. Notably, disparities exist among educational and ethnic groups, with low-educated widowed men and divorced women facing extended periods of depressive symptoms. By understanding the implications and consequences of marital disruption, decision-makers can work towards developing effective strategies and support systems to promote mental well-being in individuals experiencing such life transitions.