With the rapid growth of the population age 65 years and older and the increased risk of cognitive decline associated with advanced age, there is a mounting need to identify the potential mechanisms that buffer against cognitive decline and preserve cognitive function in later life.

Previous studies have shown that having more years of education, participating in cognitively stimulating activities and having longevity in your family all protect brain health and help people maintain good cognitive function throughout life. However, little is known about how these factors relate with one another or if they are distinct pathways for optimizing cognitive health.

Now, for the first time, a new study looks at the interplay between these factors that promote cognitive resilience in older adulthood. The study found that older adults without a family history of longevity who more frequently engaged in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, writing, playing games and visiting museums, were able to match the same level of good cognitive functioning as those with familial longevity. This was particularly true for executive function (cognitive processes that help people manage their thoughts and actions) and language tasks. When both groups had similar levels of cognitive engagement from activities like reading, researchers found that people with a family history of longer lifespans still had better memory than those without that trait.

The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University and sexual wellness brand Womanizer released headline results from a groundbreaking clinical study examining how masturbation can affect menopause symptoms in peri- and post-menopausal women across the United States. At baseline, 97% of participants reported at least one menopause-related symptom. After four weeks of Womanizer Next use, 92.9% of participants reported experiencing at least one menopausal symptom less frequently. While masturbation alone appeared beneficial, women who achieved orgasm showed the largest symptom reductions. While only 3% reported ever having a doctor discuss masturbation with them, 91% said they would be more likely to masturbate if they knew it could positively impact menopause symptoms and 79% said they would follow a doctor’s advice to do so. This research highlights a major gap between patient interest and clinical guidance. By documenting measurable benefits, this research aims to destigmatize self-pleasure and highlight sexual wellness as an integral part of menopause care.