A study conducted by the University of California, Davis, found that having happy intimate partners can have a positive impact on managing stress, especially as we age. The research compared individuals’ self-reported emotional states and relationship satisfaction with their levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and found that older couples had lower cortisol levels when their partners experienced positive emotions. This effect was even more pronounced in couples who reported higher satisfaction in their relationships, highlighting the importance of positive emotional experiences in intimate relationships.
Cortisol plays a crucial role in our bodies’ stress response and daily functioning, with levels typically increasing in the morning and decreasing throughout the day. In times of acute stress, cortisol spikes to support the body in producing glucose and increasing metabolism for sudden action. However, studies have consistently shown that negative emotions are associated with higher cortisol levels, which can have long-term negative effects on overall health. In older adults, these links between emotions and cortisol may be more significant, as their bodies have a stronger physiological response to stress but are less efficient at slowing down cortisol production.
The study, led by Tomiko Yoneda, analyzed data from 321 adults aged 56 to 87 from Canada and Germany between 2012 and 2018. Participants provided self-reported emotional states and relationship satisfaction, which were then compared to levels of cortisol measured through saliva samples multiple times a day over a week. The findings revealed that individuals had lower cortisol levels when their partner reported higher positive emotions, with older adults and those in happier relationships showing a stronger correlation between positive emotions and reduced cortisol production.
Interestingly, the study did not find any significant link between an individual’s cortisol levels and their partner’s negative emotions. This could be attributed to older adults potentially shielding their partners from experiencing a physiological response to negative emotions in others. Yoneda suggested that positive emotions may act as a buffer against cortisol production and can contribute to overall well-being, especially in older adults where managing stress becomes more critical for health and longevity.
The results of the study align with a psychological theory suggesting that positive emotions can enhance an individual’s ability to act more fluidly in the moment, leading to a positive feedback loop that reinforces this ability over time. This indicates that positive emotional experiences in relationships can benefit both partners by creating a supportive environment that promotes happiness and health. Yoneda emphasized the importance of high-quality relationships, particularly in older adulthood, as they can serve as a source of support and strengthen the bond between partners to navigate life’s challenges together.
Overall, the research underscores the relationship between happiness, intimacy, and stress management in older couples, highlighting the importance of positive emotional experiences in maintaining overall well-being. By fostering positive emotions and building strong relationships, individuals can enhance their ability to cope with stress and improve their quality of life as they age. The study emphasizes the potential benefits of shared positive emotions in relationships for promoting happiness and health throughout life.