Those with an active sex life are better off—in more ways than previously thought.
Improved brain function in older adults has been tied to increased sexual activity, according to a new study published Thursday.
Men and women between 50 and 83 years of age who had sex regularly scored higher on tests measuring their verbal fluency and their ability to detect objects and space around them.
The research was conducted by the universities of Coventry and Oxford.
Participants in the study were given an exam testing attention, memory, fluency, language and visual acuity. In addition, they were asked to fill out surveys detailing their sexual activity.
Newsweek reports that those who had sex at least once a week earned the highest scores on verbal fluency tests, followed by visual acuity. However, attention, memory, and language didn’t seem to be affected.
In their findings, published in the Journals of Gerontology, scientists say further research should explore how biological compounds released during sex, like dopamine and oxytocin, influence cognitive function.
Whether you’re looking to get into shape, or just get out of a funk, The Charge has got you covered. Sign up for our new wellness newsletter today.
