Based on the 2018 CLHLS data,this study employs non-conditional logistic regression and non-linear Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition to analyze the difference in cognitive function of rural empty nesters with severe aging trends from the gender perspective.The study found that there was a significant gender difference in the cognitive function of rural empty-nesters,and the proportion and score of normal cognitive function in rural female empty-nesters were significantly lower than that of males.Rural female empty-nesters showed sensitivity to marital status,loneliness and life satisfaction,while rural male empty-nesters showed sensitivity to self-rated economy.The cognitive difference of rural empty-nesters is 64.05%related to gender itself.The individual differences in education level,marital status,age,activity of daily living and social participation expand this gender difference in cognitive function of rural empty-nesters.This paper suggested providing relevant support,including improving the accessibility of medical services,and promoting social interaction activities to narrow the gender gap in cognitive function of rural empty-nesters,therefore better maintaining the health of older adults.