Silver Sneakers: Medicare Includes It
This is a great question.
Medicare and the Silver Sneakers program go hand in hand as Silver Sneakers is the leading wellness provider for Medicare Advantage plans across the US. With nearly 10 Million members, there is a good chance your Medicare plan offers Silver Sneakers.
To check if your Medicare plan includes the Silver Sneakers program, you need to check your summary of benefits. Below is an example of what you will see in your summary of benefits booklet.
As you can see, Silver Sneakers is listed as included which means you can begin your fitness plan through Medicare Silver Sneakers immediately. If its not listed in your Medicare plans summary of benefits, then you should check Silver Sneakers Eligibility to a find a participating plan.
Checking if your health plan includes Silver Sneakers is simple.
Or, you could simply go to Google and type in Silver Sneakers followed by the city or state you live in. Below are some hypothetical examples and step-by-step instructions how you can find information on Medicare Advantage plans that offer Silver Sneakers near you. Just insert the city or state of your choice.
Silver Sneakers Tucson
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Competition: Silversneakers Vs Unitedhealthcare
If youre looking for a Medicare insurance plan, you cant choose SilverSneakers. But theres a good chance the plan you choose will give you access to SilverSneakers as a free extra benefit. For Medicare insurance coverage, consider UnitedHealthcare, the insurer with the largest share of Medicare Advantage members. UnitedHealthcare offers a range of Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans and scores well on the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Star Ratings quality measures. There are many Medicare plans that will get you access to SilverSneakers benefits, but as the market leader, UnitedHealthcare is a good all-around option for its range of available plans and extra benefits.
Golds Curves And Ace Offer Discounts For Aarp Fitness
Posted: Sep 26, 2007 · As part of the program, Golds Gym and Curves reduced their enrollment fees to $49 for AARP members. Also, Golds Gym lowered its monthly membership dues by 20 percent, and Curves dropped its monthly membership rates to as low as $29. However, membership rates do vary, and the AARP advises all members to check their local club.
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Medicare Insurance Plans With Silver Sneakers
Many of our clients ask about the free Silver Sneakers gym membership and how to qualify when shopping for supplemental insurance plans. It can save members a lot of money.
Some insurance companies offer this valuable benefit, but many do not. And availability will depend on where you live. We help our clients compare the Medicare insurance policies offering this perk while crunching the numbers to make sure they arent overpaying for their coverage.
What Is Aarp Renew Active
Members of AARP Medicare Advantage plans arent entirely out of luck when it comes to fitness program benefits. UnitedHealthcare replaced SilverSneakers with a different fitness program called Renew Active.
Renew Active works similar to SilverSneakers. The program offers a list of participating gyms and fitness centers, which you can find using the Find a Fitness Location search tool on the companys website. Some AARP Medicare Advantage plan members may also have the option of participating from home using a Fitbit and online workout videos.
Participating Renew Active locations include nationwide gym chains, local fitness centers and even community organizations like senior centers. Some of the participating facilities include:
- Orangetheory A heart rate-based total body group workout combining science, coaching and technology
- Pure Barre Workouts inspired by elements of ballet, yoga and Pilates that focus on low-impact, high-intensity movements incporporating strength training, stretching and cardio
- Club Pilates Low-impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility and posture
The gym and fitness center amenities available to Renew Active members will vary by location but may include pools, saunas and more, and they are generally equivalent to a basic membership at the participating facility.
There are even classes to join and events to attend that cover things like nutrition, caregiving, technology and more.
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What Insurance Plans Offer Silversneakers
Before we list the specific insurance companies that include SilverSneakers coverage, its important to keep several things in mind:
- The list of providers currently offering access to SilverSneakers changes every year.
- This list below details the major carriers widely known in the United Statesyou may find other, lesser-known insurance companies that offer SilverSneakers.
- Not all plans in all states or counties will have SilverSneakers, even if the insurance company is listed as offering the program. For this reason, you should always check the specifics of any plan youre interested in.
For 2021, the following alphabetical list comprises insurance companies that offer SilverSneakers as part of their plan benefits:
Where Is Silversneakers Offered
SilverSneakers has more than 15,000 locations at participating gyms, community centers, and fitness centers around the country. This includes some of the countrys largest chains, like LA Fitness, the YMCA, and Planet Fitness.
In order to find the SilverSneakers classes that are available in your community, visit the SilverSneakers website, enter your zip code on the map, and discover all your fitness opportunities.
If you have any questions regarding the SilverSneakers program, how to enroll in it and have it covered by Medicare, and where you can attend a class, visit the SilverSneakers website or contact your Medicare Advantage provider.
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Will Unitedhealthcare Offer Any Fitness Benefit In 2020
Yes. Starting in 2020, UHC will offer new fitness benefits* with some plans. As plans can vary in every zip code, ask your licensed agent whether or not this benefit can apply to you!
Medicare beneficiaries with certain UHC Medigap plans may feature a fitness benefit that includes gym membership discounts and phone access to wellness coaches along with other health resources.
Medicare Advantage policyholders may be able to join a program called Renew Active, which will replace SilverSneakers® in January 2020. The Renew Active benefit may include access to fitness centers, classes, and group activities along with tools to exercise your brain health.
*Always check with your doctor before starting any fitness program to make sure the program suits your individual needs.
Finding An Age Friendly Fitness Center Aarp And Icaa Team
Posted: AARP has teamed up with the International Council on Active Aging to increase awareness of and access to age-friendly wellness and fitness centers and services. Both ICAA and AARP are committed to helping you find the kind of facilities and services that will support a healthier and more active life.
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Lots Of Seniors Are Overweight But Few Use Free Counseling For It
Altogether, more than 5 million customers have been affected. But the company is making market-by-market decisions, and nearly 675,000 UnitedHealthcare Medigap policyholders and 1.9 million UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan members will retain access to SilverSneakers in 2019.
I think its a smart move, said Connie Holt, an independent broker with Goldsum Insurance Solutions of Pleasant Hill, Calif.
But many of the companys customers arent happy that SilverSneakers, which offers group classes tailored to seniors in addition to gym access at 15,000 sites, is disappearing. And confusion about alternatives is widespread.
Its one of the top topics that seniors have been raising over the past few months when they call Ohios Senior Health Insurance Information Program, said Chris Reeg, the OSHIIP program director.
Michael Chanak Jr., 69, of Wadsworth, Ohio, had problems getting through to UnitedHealthcares customer relations department several times when he called with questions a common complaint. The way this is being implemented is a train wreck, said Chanak, who has a UnitedHealthcare Medicare supplemental policy and spends an hour every day exercising at his gym.
People are extremely upset, wrote Margaret Lee of Arroyo Grande, Calif., in an email. Thats about the only topic of conversation at my water exercise class!
In an email, Mark Bagley, a spokesman for the organization, said , not AARP, operates these plans and determines the benefits.
What Is The Silver Sneakers Fitness Program That Aarp Offers
The Silver Sneakers Fitness program is a value added no-cost program offered to AARP Medicare Supplement insurance members. The Silver Sneakers program encourages healthy and active living. Members get a basic health club membership which gives them access to over 9,000 participating health centers across the nation. Members can access the health clubs in their home state and even when they travel around the country. Its an excellent program for snow birds that dont want to maintain or pay for two gym memberships.
Members participate in classes specifically designed for seniors. The signature classes are taught by certified trainers. Classes to teach seniors how to managing diabetes, quit smoking and lose weight are quite successful. Besides the signature classes reserved for Silver Sneakers members, members also have free access to the clubs treadmills, weights, heated pools and additional fitness classes that are offered to general members.
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What States Is Blue Cross Blue Shield In
The 36 independent and locally operated Blue Cross Blue Shield companies deliver health insurance coverage to one in three Americans across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In addition, the BCBS Federal Employee Program® insures over five million federal employees, retirees and their families.
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What Does A Silversneakers Membership Include
- LOCAL GYM MEMBERSHIPS: Silver Sneakers has an extensive list of gyms that participate in their program that offers free gym memberships to seniors. Their website boasts having more gym facilities than there are Starbucks locations in the U.S. .
- If you are a part of a Medicare Advantage program that uses Silver Sneakers, then you can access the gyms in their network at no cost. You can use as many of these facilities as you like while you are a part of your MA plan.
- ONLINE FITNESS CLASSES: If you prefer to workout at home, or do not have a physical location close to you, SilverSneakers offers online fitness classes.
- APP: They also have an app to help you track your fitness goals and schedule your fitness plans. The app can also help you locate participating locations.
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Medicare Advantage Plans Including Silver Sneakers
There are many, manyMedicare Advantage plans affiliated with Silver Sneakers. Your options will depend on where you purchase your insurance. If you would like to see which insurance companies in your state include this plan, view theparticipating health plans here.
Its not uncommon to see both large and small insurance companies include this popular benefit. Large carriers like Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Coventry, Gateway, Humana, United Healthcare and WellCare participate in most states.
Is Unitedhealthcare A Good Medicare Supplement
Even though Medicare Supplement plan benefits are standardized, some perks are available by enrolling with specific carriers. Your healthcare coverage will not change, but you may find additional benefits through the company from which you buy a policy.
When you enroll in a UnitedHealthcare Medigap policy, you get benefits like:
- Early enrollment
- Household discounts
- Community-rated premiums
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Will A Silver Sneakers Gym Membership Improve My Health
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the Silver Sneakers program may reduce long-term health-care costs and inpatient admissions among seniors. In fact, the study showed people who attended a Silver Sneakers gym or fitness class at least twice a week spent $1,250 less on health care in their second year of the program than those attending just once a week.
If you have diabetes, you may also see a positive impact from a Silver Sneakers gym membership. Research published by the American Diabetes Association showed that diabetic seniors who participated in Silver Sneakers activities saved over $1,600 in medical expenses their first year and had fewer hospitalizations than those who didnt.
Finally, a research article in the professional journal Population Health Management showed the Silver Sneakers gym membership program boosted the overall physical and emotional health of participants. The research showed that higher participation in the program improved quality of life across several different measures. It also reduced some of the physical difficulties associated with aging.
Of course, not everyone will have the same response to a Silver Sneakers gym membership, but research shows that many do see positive health benefits. These studies didnt compare Silver Sneakers to other health club memberships.
You should always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program such as Silver Sneakers, however.
Aarp Medicare Silversneakers And Renew Active
Posted: Aug 02, 2021 · UnitedHealthcare replaced SilverSneakers with a different fitness program called Renew Active. Renew Active works similar to SilverSneakers. The program offers a list of participating gyms and fitness centers, which you can find using the Find a Fitness Location search tool on the companys website.
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Where Is The Aarp Silver Sneakers Fitness Program Available
The program is not available in all states, although new states are added regularly.As of this writing it is currently offered to members in the following states
If the program is not offered in your area contact Silver Sneakers directly by calling 1-888-423-4632. Seniors can also contact 1800-MEDICARE to learn about AARPs Medicare program availability in your area.
Medicare beneficiaries that enroll into this program should understand that Silver Sneakers is not a guaranteed Medicare benefit.It is a value added benefit provided as a courtesy to AARP members enrolled in one of their branded insurance partnership programs.AARP can discontinue the Silver Sneakers Fitness Program at any time but seniors have options too.They can change their insurance policies every year during open enrollment.Before making any changes to their health plans, Medicare beneficiaries should contact their health insurance consultant or professional to discuss their health care needs.
United Healthcares New Program Renew Active
Despite the partnership between SilverSneakers and United Healthcare ending, United Healthcare is promoting fitness for seniors with a new program.
Renew Active is a new program that is covered by United Healthcare to promote the same fitness goals seniors have been achieving through SilverSneakers.
Along with typical workout routines, Renew Active provides brain fitness activities. This program, known as AARP Staying Sharp, comes at no additional cost to subscribers who already receive Renew Active as a benefit. Staying Sharp allows users to take a quiz that builds a personalized routine. Articles on mental fitness and workouts are all provided virtually.
Renew Active provides many of the same benefits as SilverSneakers. Gyms are available to members at no additional cost with instruction-based classes and open gym equipment. Renew Active also offers a FitBit sponsored community in which members can track their progress with other members, supporting the social aspect of this program.
Regardless of your fitness level, you can find programs that fit your needs. Here are some examples of programs available:
- Strength programs including dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, calisthenics
- Aquatic programs such as water yoga, aqua aerobics, and swimming
- Cardio such as cycling, kickboxing and aerobics.
- Speciality programs such as personal training, Zumba, and self-defense
- Mind/Body activities like yoga, pilates, and tai chi
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When Can I Enroll In A Medicare Advantage Or Medicare Supplement Plan
The Annual Enrollment Period is from October 15 December 7, which is the time of year many Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in new plans or make changes to existing ones.
Some members qualify for a Special Enrollment Period . Depending on your eligibility, you may have a lifelong SEP, which allows you to make one change per quarter for the first three quarters of the year instead of only during AEP. Some people may only be eligible for a temporary SEP due to a life change, like moving to a new service area.
If you have just become eligible for Medicare for the first time, you can enroll in Medicare Advantage during your Initial Enrollment Period .
Silver Sneakers Program Requirements
SilverSneakers eligibility is based around the Medicare Advantage plan you are currently enrolled. Below are the Silver Sneaker eligibility requirements:
- Currently eligible for Medicare Parts A and B
- Policyholder of a Medicare Silver Sneakers partner Medicare Advantage insurance provider
You are eligible to switch your Medicare Advantage plan every year during the annual election period . At that time your Silver Sneakers membership will seamlessly transfer with any Medicare Silver Sneakers partner you enroll with for your health benefits.
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Find The Cheapest Insurance Quotes In Your Area
Silver Sneakers Medicare program is one of the best extra benefits offered through Medicare Advantage plans and select Medigap plans across the United States. A recent survey showed nearly 70% of those on Medicare Advantage plans chose their plan based on the simple fact they would receive a Silver Sneakers membership. Its no wonder why more Medigap companies are beginning to offer Silver Sneakers with their Plan G and Plan F.
An awareness of personal health and wellness is spreading more than ever due to the advancements in medicine and technology. More and more people are living with pre-existing health conditions and Silver Sneakers is playing a major role in that.
As with most things related to Medicare, there are a lot of details and Silver Sneakers is no different. This guide will help not only serve as an ongoing resource but also educate you on the following elements of the Medicare Silver Sneakers program. Be sure to click the button to bookmark this page for reference in the future!
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