Gaby
Good sex as we age can help keep our brains healthy. Researchers found that men and women aged 62 to 74 who described their sex lives as very enjoyable and satisfying had better cognitive health outcomes five years later than those who viewed their bedroom activities with less enthusiasm.
Good Sex Reduces Stress Through Dopamine
According to researchers speaking to the Daily Mail, the findings may be linked to stress relief through dopamine. A fulfilling sex life can promote the release of this pleasure hormone.
Stress does not support neurogenesis in the part of the brain associated with memory. In contrast, the release of dopamine reduces stress and encourages this process. This is why researchers believe that older adults with satisfying sex lives have healthier brains. Additionally, as is well-known, orgasms also lead to increased dopamine, which further enhances memory in later life.
Not Always Amazing, But Definitely Frequent
The study involved around 1,700 older adults (aged 62 and up). Their cognitive skills were assessed across six key areas, including working memory, attention, and visuospatial skills.
The study revealed the best news for those aged 75 to 90. Their sex lives don’t necessarily have to be fantastic; it’s enough that they are frequent. Experts note that people in this age group can engage in any sexual activity (not necessarily culminating in orgasm), as long as it happens at least once a week. In such cases, their chances of having better cognitive skills are significantly higher compared to those who reported not having sex at all over the past year.
This effect was comparable to the benefits of having a higher education. As previously noted, individuals who completed higher education had better cognitive skills compared to their peers who only graduated from high school.
Sex as a Form of Physical Activity
According to scientists, the frequency of sexual relations matters in older age because any sexual activity at this stage (regardless of quality) is beneficial for health. They point out that sexual activity can contribute to cognitive health as it is a form of physical activity.
This may be especially true in older age, as physical activity tends to decrease, and older adults often experience high levels of inactivity. Thus, any circulatory benefits from sex can be significant in later years.
Researchers used data from a long-term population study in the United States. The results showed that individuals with better cognitive health reported having more and better sex and were satisfied with their sex lives.
