A new study indicated that having sex as an older adult can improve cognitive performance, although the benefits varied by age group.
The study, which will appear in the July 2023 issue of The Journal for Sex Research, is one of the first nationally representative population-based studies to investigate the link between older Americans’ sexual lives and their cognitive abilities.
Co-author Dr. Shannon Shen claims that while much is known about the causes and treatments for cognitive decline in the elderly, far less is known about the potential benefits of intimate connections for mental health.
However, sexual frequency did not have any effect on the younger adults in the research, those aged 62 to 74. Instead, they had superior cognitive performance five years later if they had higher sexual quality, defined as more physical pleasure and emotional fulfillment.
The advantages of regular sexual activity vary between sexes as people age
The study assessed cognitive tests and survey responses from 1,683 adults to establish a link between sex and brain health. No information about transgender individuals was collected, although 1.6% of respondents identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
All sexual contact between two consenting adults, whether it results in intercourse or orgasm, is considered sex. The researchers focused exclusively on conjugal sexual activity.
Cognitive impairment was shown to be less likely among males who reported having sex at least once a week compared to those who reported having no sex in the previous year. However, there was no correlation between women’s sexual activity and their mental health.
What are the positive effects of sexual activity on health?
According to Linda Waite, Ph.D., a professor of sociology at the University of Chicago who has also studied the effect that sex has on cognitive health in older age, having sex has several physical benefits as we age, including increasing blood flow, stretching, and the release of hormones and endorphins from orgasm. However, the importance of social components cannot be overstated.
Does your life need more sexual activity?
Shen believes that although the findings of the study suggest that both the quantity and quality of sexual activity may enhance cognitive functioning in older age, she would not necessarily imply that it is healthy for everyone to engage in more sexual activity.
Shen claims that their findings show the significance of a person’s life stage in reaping the benefits of their sexual connection in later years. It’s not enough for younger folks to simply have more sexual encounters; the quality of their relationship with their sexual partner also matters for how well they function cognitively later in life.
Even individuals with low libidos are still able to have satisfying sexual experiences, and the study’s expansive definition of “sex” suggests that “intercourse” isn’t the only thing that needs to take place in order for us to experience these cognitive benefits.
In a world filled with various distractions and commitments, prioritizing sexual intimacy can contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling relationship. Beyond physical pleasure, sexual activity offers emotional closeness, stress relief, and numerous psychological benefits. Remember, there’s no universal rule for the perfect amount of sex; the key is finding what works best for you and your partner.