widows

Widows are women whose husbands have died. The male counterpart is the widower, and the term widowhood refers to the state or condition of being a widow. Globally, widowhood often disproportionately affects women because women have longer life expectancy and men have higher mortality at many ages. Cultural norms and religious practices influence how widowhood is experienced, including expectations about mourning, remarriage, and daily roles.

Impact: Loss of partner’s income and social support can affect financial security, housing, and health care access. Many widows face reduced household income after the death, and may rely on pensions, survivor benefits, or inheritance arrangements. In some societies, widows face social stigma or restrictive practices, while others provide support networks, widow’s groups, and charitable assistance.

Legal aspects: Inheritance laws, property rights, and survivor benefits vary by country and faith. Some systems allow widows to claim a portion of the estate or a survivor's pension; others are more restrictive. Remarriage norms can also vary; in some traditions remarriage is discouraged or forbidden, in others it is common.

Cultural and ritual aspects: Mourning periods, dress, and rituals differ widely. Some communities observe extended mourning or rites of seclusion, while others treat widowhood as a normal life stage with community and family support. Policy responses include social protection programs, grief counseling, and microfinance or employment support aimed at older women.

Statistics: Widowhood is a long-term life transition for many older women; longevity differences mean that in many regions most widows are elderly. The experience is diverse, spanning rural and urban settings, different religions, and socioeconomic groups.