Final answer:
A person whose last marriage ended with the death of his or her spouse is termed as widowed. This status is distinct from being divorced or separated, with its own unique implications for the individual's life, including emotional and social challenges, and sometimes increased risks such as mistreatment in elderly widows or widowers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term defined as a person whose last marriage ended with the death of his or her spouse is widowed. When someone is widowed, they have lost their spouse to death, which distinguishes this term from the other options such as divorced or separated. Divorce refers to the formal legal end of a marriage by court order, whereas separation generally means a couple is living apart but still legally married. Being widowed often carries with it emotional, social, and financial implications, as evident in the experiences of widows and widowers who must navigate life without their partners and may face pressures such as the risk of mistreatment or the decision of whether to remarry.
In reviewing different aspects of widowhood, studies like that of Kate Davidson (2002) have found that men and women may experience life after the loss of a spouse differently. Many women may embrace their new independence, but for men, the loss can mean the absence of care and emotional support. This reflects that widowhood isn't just a marital status; it impacts a person's entire way of life, which may explain why some elderly people, particularly those who are widowed, are at increased risk of mistreatment due to the vulnerability and social isolation that can accompany the bereavement process.