Association of Military Life Experiences and Health Indicators among Military Spouses
Abstract
To assess health behaviors among military spouses using the Healthy People 2020 framework and to identify correlates such as military experiences, psycho-social factors, and service member behaviors. Methods: Using data from the Millennium Cohort Family Study, which surveyed 9,872 spouses of service members with 2-5 years of military, we examined attainment of Healthy People 2020 goals for spouses and Service members, including healthy weight, exercise, sleep and alcohol and tobacco use. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed associations of spouse health behaviors with military life experiences, social support, and service member behaviors, adjusting for demographics and military descriptors. Results: The majority of military spouses met most health goals. However, fewer than half met the healthy weight and the strength training goals. Having no one to turn to and greater perceived family support from the military were associated with better health behaviors. Service members health behaviors were significantly associated with every spouse health behaviors. Conclusions: Findings suggest that enhanced social and military support and tailored programming for military spouses may be helpful to improve the health outcomes of military couples.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 12, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1105986
Entities
People
- Alicia C. Sparks
- Christianna S. Williams
- John A. Fairbank
- Kelly A. Woodall
- Nida H. Corry
- Sharmini Radakrishnan
- Valerie A. Stander
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center