Longer lives

Should be widowers not widowed

Yes, I agree, I think women generally live a few years longer than men, hence we have more widows around than widowed.
In my opinion/experience, women are better at taking care of themselves and their health than men, whereas men try to put off going to see their Doctor until the problem has become more serious, or indeed until their wife/partner actually sends them along or makes the appointment for them.
Also women tend to be more sociable and possibly more active in their local community, leading to a more healthy lifestyle.

I think women are more open to acknowledging when they’re not well than men and seeking help. So maybe men’s ailments, ignored, escalate to a more serious situation before they’re treated.

Maybe women have an inbuilt strength and tolerance regarding pain and illness. I have often wondered how the human race would continue if it was men who gave birth.
My MIL was a medical professional she used to say that men couldn’t take pain like women. She also would say show one a syringe and they would whimper. I am sure they are not all like that everyone is individual after all.
It could be that men might not have the same will power to continue on if really poorly so they give up.

Not sure when your mum's era was but I think that, depending on the man's job, women were more active and not only during the day but through the evening and sometimes into the early hours, therefore perhaps fitter?

I’m not sure, but could it be because oestrogen protects us , well up until menopause, from heart issues?

I’m sure someone will come along with a better explanation!