More Medicare Advantage Plans Now Include Brain Training Programs

Like many families, my family has been touched over the years by Alzheimer’s disease and various other forms of senior onset cognitive disorders.

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated five to eight percent of people over the age of 60 have some form of dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most common of them. 

The risk of developing dementia doubles every five years after the age of 65. However, dementia is not a normal part of aging, and not all older adults will develop it.

It’s been a tough nut for scientists to crack. There’s still no cure, though we now have ways of delaying its progress, and – perhaps – preventing its onset.

One of those ways is brain training. 

What is Brain Training? 

Brain training, also more formally referred to as memory fitness training, refers to a variety of activities or exercises designed to improve cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. These activities are typically structured and repetitive, with the goal of strengthening neural connections and improving overall brain function.

Brain training exercises can take many forms, including:

• Computerized cognitive training programs – these are computer-based games and exercises designed to challenge cognitive abilities and improve mental agility.
• Physical exercise – regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercise, has been shown to improve cognitive function and brain health.
• Mindfulness meditation – this practice involves focusing on the present moment and training the mind to be more aware and focused.
• Learning new skills – learning a new language, musical instrument, or other skill can provide cognitive benefits and challenge the brain.
• Puzzles and games – activities such as crossword puzzles, chess, Sudoku, and other brain teasers can help improve cognitive function and mental agility.

Is Brain Training Covered Under Medicare? 

Currently, Medicare does not cover brain fitness programs or cognitive training as a preventive or therapeutic service. Medicare only covers medically necessary services that are deemed reasonable and necessary” for the treatment of an illness or injury.

However, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits, including coverage for brain fitness programs or cognitive training programs such as those listed above. Currently, about 25% of private Medicare Advantage plans offer these kinds of cognitive services as a preventative measure, as opposed to a treatment for existing memory loss or dementia issues. 

Additionally, there are several community-based programs and resources that may offer brain fitness activities and cognitive training for older adults. These programs may be available through community centers, senior centers, or local health clinics, and may be offered at low or no cost.

Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer cognitive training programs or brain fitness activities as part of their preventive care services, while others may require additional fees or co-payments.

Benefits of Memory Fitness “Brain Training”

Brain training exercises and activities have been shown to provide several benefits for overall brain fitness and cognitive function. Here are some of the known benefits:

• Improved memory – regular brain training exercises can improve memory function, making it easier to remember information and recall it later.
• Enhanced attention and focus – brain training exercises can help increase attention and focus, allowing individuals to stay more alert and better able to concentrate on tasks.
• Reduced cognitive decline – brain training exercises can help slow down or reduce cognitive decline associated with aging, potentially reducing the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Improved problem-solving skills – brain training exercises can help improve problem-solving skills, allowing individuals to approach problems with greater creativity and adaptability.
• Reduced stress and anxiety – certain brain training exercises, such as mindfulness meditation, can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, leading to improved overall mental health.

Of course, not every program that claims to improve your brain is proven to work. But according to research published in journals like the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, programs from BrainHQ, Cognifit, and Game Show all have good evidence to support their effectiveness.

Stay Sharp!

It’s normal for people to experience some cognitive decline as they get older. But you don’t have to take it lying down! Staying physically active and mentally sharp can go a long way to slowing the advancement of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders that can affect any of us. 

Here are some things you can do keep your mental edge:

1. Stay physically active – Jog, swim, walk, play tennis or pickleball. Find something you enjoy doing – so you’ll keep doing it! 
2. Take up a strategy game – for example, join a local chess club.
3.  Enjoy a hobby – like playing musical instruments or building model cars, to keep your hands and mind busy. 
4. Get out of the house – stimulate your brain by changing your surroundings.
5. Don’t isolate yourself – enjoy time with friends and family. Host lunches or dinner parties and invite stimulating conversationalists.
6. Read great books.  
7. Teach your grandchildren – about anything! They’ll treasure those moments long after you’re gone! 

It’s worth noting that the effectiveness of brain training exercises may vary from person to person. And some research suggests that the benefits may be limited to specific tasks rather than having a broad impact on overall cognitive function. Nonetheless, incorporating regular brain training exercises into your routine can provide numerous benefits for your mental health and well-being.

I wish all of you the very best, and I’ll “see” you in April with the next issue of MediGap Advisors’ Health & Wealth Newsletter!

Here’s to your health and wealth,

Wiley P. Long, III
President – MediGap Advisors