Humana’s New Challenge Helps Seniors Train Their Brains

With puzzles, lifestyle tips and mental exercises, Humana’s latest initiative encourages older adults to stay sharp and proactive about aging

Humana is taking healthy aging beyond the gym with the launch of the Humana Cognitive Games, a nationwide virtual challenge meant to help older adults flex their mental muscles. 

Running from July 14 through August 11, the Cognitive Games encourage seniors to participate in brain-training activities, access lifestyle tips and explore educational content for free at HumanaGames.com.

“Healthcare starts long before you step into a doctor’s office – it begins at home with daily choices we make to take care of our bodies and minds,” Humana’s president of insurance, George Renaudin, said. “At Humana, we are committed to proactive, preventive care – from wellness checks and screenings to personal healthy habits – that can help improve health outcomes. Because for many Americans, true health means the freedom to live life on their own terms.” 

The initiative debuts alongside the 2025 National Senior Games, held later this month in Des Moines, Iowa, where Humana will serve as presenting sponsor for the tenth consecutive time. The Games bring together more than 12,000 athletes aged 50 and older for Olympic-style competition and community. 

Mounting evidence continues to highlight the role of cognitive engagement in healthy aging. One 2023 study involving more than 10,000 older adults found that frequent participation in mentally active pursuits was associated with a lower risk of developing dementia over a 10-year period. In contrast, social outings and interactions alone were not linked to a reduced risk, reinforcing the importance of mentally stimulating activities.

“You’ve got to exercise your brain,” Conviva Senior Primary Care chief medical officer Isabel Souffront, MD, said. “It’s like anything in life. If you can strengthen that muscle, it will help keep you sharp. Trying new things – whether it’s a hobby, an instrument or a puzzle – stimulates the brain and helps protect against mental decline.”