Study reveals health benefits enjoyed by married LGBT couples

A recent study by the University of Washington's School of Social Work, has revealed that married same-sex couples enjoy a higher quality of life than single LGBT adults.

In 2014, 1,800 LGBT people over the age of 50 were surveyed in the 32 states of America where same-sex marriage was already legal at the time.

Of those who took part, one quarter were married, one quarter were in long-term relationships and the remainder were single.  

The results were published to Eurekalert last week.

The research revealed that in general, participants in relationships (married or long-term), showed better health outcomes than those who were single, with those who were married faring even better, socially and financially.

The study also found that single LGBT adults were more likely to have a disability and reported lower physical, psychological, social and environmental quality of life.

It is thought that the tax exemptions, and social benefits enjoyed by married couples may be a contributing factor. 

As same-sex marriage was only legalised in Ireland and across the United Sates in 2015, research on the subject is quite limited, however, researchers say they will continue to examine the influence same-sex marriage has on the health and well-being of the LGBT community.  

Oh, and while we have you; don't forget to have your say in the inaugural SHEmazing Awards this May! It's time to vote, and you can do it right here!