In 2016, researchers from the universities of Coventry and Oxford published findings that older adults who were sexually active consistently scored higher on cognitive function tests than those who were not. Then they went deeper.[1]
The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Using data from 6,833 adults aged 50–89 participating in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, researchers examined associations between sexual activity and two cognitive tests: number sequencing (executive function) and word recall (memory). After adjusting for age, education, wealth, physical activity, depression, cohabiting status, self-rated health, loneliness, and quality of life, significant associations remained between sexual activity and cognitive performance—particularly in men.[1]
The Follow-Up: Which Cognitive Functions?
A 2017 follow-up study with 73 participants aged 50–83 used the more comprehensive ACE-III cognitive assessment to identify exactly which cognitive domains benefited. Participants who reported weekly sexual activity scored significantly higher on overall cognitive scores, verbal fluency, and visuospatial ability compared to those who had sex monthly or never.[2]
The verbal fluency tests—naming as many animals as possible in 60 seconds, then as many words starting with F—showed the strongest effect. These tests specifically measure working memory and executive function, the “higher-order” cognitive abilities that tend to decline most with age.[2]
Why Frequency Matters
Interestingly, the relationship showed a dose-response pattern: weekly sexual activity was associated with better scores than monthly, and monthly was better than never. This suggests the benefit isn’t just about having some sexual activity—it’s about regularity.[2]
The Proposed Mechanisms
The researchers discussed several biological pathways that could explain the association:
Dopamine: Sexual activity triggers dopamine release, and dopamine is directly involved in working memory and executive function—the exact cognitive domains where the strongest benefits were observed.[2]
Oxytocin: Released during sexual activity, oxytocin has anti-inflammatory properties and may support neuroplasticity.
Cardiovascular benefits: Sexual activity is moderate-intensity physical exercise, and cardiovascular health is one of the strongest predictors of cognitive health in aging.
Stress reduction: Lower cortisol preserves hippocampal function, and the hippocampus is where memory consolidation occurs.
The Implications
Lead researcher Dr. Hayley Wright noted: “Every time we do another piece of research we are getting a little bit closer to understanding why this association exists…whether there is a cause and effect relationship between sexual activity and cognitive function in older people.”[3]
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our anonymous 5-question quiz matches you with the right telehealth provider based on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Take the Free Quiz →Anonymous • No sign-up required • Takes 30 seconds
References
[1] Wright, H. & Jenks, R. (2016). Sex on the brain! Associations between sexual activity and cognitive function in older age. Age and Ageing, 45(2), 313–317.
[2] Wright, H., Jenks, R. & Demeyere, N. (2019). Frequent sexual activity predicts specific cognitive abilities in older adults. Journals of Gerontology, Series B, 74(1), 47–51.
[3] Coventry University (2017). More frequent sexual activity can boost brain power in older adults. Press release.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by Dr. [Medical Reviewer], MD. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment. Individual results vary. ED can be a sign of underlying health conditions that require professional evaluation.