UPMC Health Plan signed an agreement to offer brain fitness software from Posit Science to all of its UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage members.

This brain training program is a new part of the UPMC Health Plan wellness services, which focus on both mind and body fitness. UPMC for Life members will not be charged for the software.

The brain fitness software, known as the Insight Brain Fitness Program, is a suite of five game-like computer exercises that make brain training challenging and effective, the company said, noting that the program engages the brain’s natural plasticity (the brain’s ability to rewire itself) to improve basic brain function.

“Brain health is important because it affects what matters most – quality of life, emotional health, relationships, everyday tasks, work, and hobbies,” said Cathy Batteer, UPMC Health Plan’s vice president of Medicare, in a statement. “Fitness isn’t just about your body anymore. We care about overall mind-body wellness, so we are thrilled to be the first health plan in this region to provide our members with this brain fitness software.”

Current or new UPMC for Life members who enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, can get the brain fitness software, which retails for $395. It will be available to members who request it after Jan. 1, 2010. Members who want the program will get a CD-ROM that can be used on a home computer.

UPMC Health Plan, the second-largest health insurer in western Pennsylvania, is owned by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.