What Kinds Of Fitness Classes Does Silversneakers Offer
SilverSneakers has a lot of classes available for every physical activity level. Whether its a stability class to improve balance and prevent falls, a water exercise class for low-impact aerobic workouts, a yoga class to increase flexibility, or an athletic, upper-body conditioning class to build strength, SilverSneakers offers quite a few options.
If youd rather work out from home, there are also SilverSneakers on-demand videos, and an app called SilverSneakers GO that includes exercise videos.
If you want the community and the classes but dont care for the gym environment, the SilverSneakers program offers more than 70 kinds of classes through its FLEX networkin churches, community centers, or recreation centers.2 In addition to being outside a gym , FLEX classes are typically smaller than gym offerings, and the instructors personal contact info is available for students to call and ask questionsor just get to know them. You can see what FLEX classes are available in your area with their FLEX locator tool.
Best Exercises For Seniors
As a senior its important to stay active. Sure, it can get hard as you get older, but there are so many senior fitness programs that offer great ways you can get your exercise when you dont have time for the gym. We went through the Silver Sneakers videos and library and compiled a list of the best exercises for seniors using a simple resistance band. You can literally do these Silver Sneakers exercises anywhere!
- Squats
How Do I Get Silver Sneakers
If you arent sure, just ask your agent while considering your options. Sometimes we cannot disclose all perks offered by an insurance company so as not to inadvertently steer clients one way or the other.
Of course, Silver Sneakers is one of the biggest perks and some of our clients will choose a carrier based on this benefit alone. Its important to crunch the numbers, however. If you frequently use the gym and a membership will save you $60 a month, then it might be an easy decision. But if you dont use the gym often you might benefit from a lower cost Medicare plan that does not offer this benefit. We can help compare your best options.
Here are a few FAQs that will help you:
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How To Enroll In Silversneakers
To learn how SilverSneakers is addressing the COVID-19 situation, visit their website and click on the Coronavirus update banner at the top of the page. The SilverSneakers® fitness program from Tivity Health, Inc. gives members enrolled in the HOP Medical Plan or HOP Pre-65 Medical Plan access to a fitness program at no additional cost. With SilverSneakers, you can join a local gym or take part in a fitness class designed specifically for seniors, which includes access to:
- More than 13,000 fitness locations throughout the country.
- On-demand workout videos led by a certified instructor on strength training, cardio fitness, yoga and stability.
- SilverSneakers FLEX®, which allows you to participate in fitness classes right in your neighborhood. From a walking club to an aerobic dance class at your local recreation center, SilverSneakers FLEX brings the fitness to you. If you can’t find a FLEX class near you, you can request a SilverSneakers FLEX location.
- SilverSneakers Go mobile app& #8212available from the App Store or Google Play . The app helps you find the nearest SilverSneakers location, access workout programs, set reminders, view your Member ID number, and more! Read the SilverSneakers Go Flyer for download instructions.
Always talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Footnotes:
Does Medicare Cover Silversneakers
Medicare does not cover the costs of fitness programs and gym memberships. Thus, Original Medicare does not cover the cost of SilverSneakers.
Medicare Advantage plans can offer additional benefits that are not available through Original Medicare. Often, these plans include some type of gym membership or wellness programs.
Medicare Supplement policies usually do not include coverage for gym memberships. However, some carriers offer Medigap plans that do include the SilverSneakers benefit. The availability of these plans also varies by state, so speaking with a licensed agent is the best way to find out if you can enroll in a Medigap policy that includes coverage for a gym membership.
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Find the most affordable Medicare Plan in your area
Private companies offer different plan options. Beneficiaries should compare plan rates in their area. Some plans include this benefit at no extra charge while other policies require an additional payment for gym benefits.
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Silver Sneakers Program Requirements
SilverSneakers eligibility is based around the Medicare Advantage plan you are currently enrolled. Below are the Silver Sneaker eligibility requirements:
- 65 or older
- 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.
How Does One Get A Silver Sneakers Certification
To become a SilverSneakers certified instructor, one must meet prerequisite requirements and successfully complete a SilverSneakers instructor training workshop. Workshops are available through Healthways Instructor Resource Center and are specific to the types of classes individual instructors are interested in teaching.
SilverSneakers instructors teach a variety of group exercise classes designed to encourage fitness in older adults. All candidates for SilverSneakers certification must be 18 or older. Additional prerequisites include holding a two- or four-year college degree in health, recreation, physical education, exercise science or a related area, or holding a national certification from a recognized fitness agency, such as the American Council on Exercise, as well as maintaining current CPR certification.
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Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover Silversneakers
Medicare Advantage plans, otherwise known as Medicare Part C, will often cover a Silver Sneakers membership as an added benefit. Common MA plan providers include but are not limited to Aetna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and Anthem Blue Cross. If a patient is unsure about whether or not a membership is included in the MA plan benefits, they should contact their insurance provider or a licensed health insurance agency.
Note: If a patient is looking to enroll in a MA or Medigap plan that includes a Silver Sneakers benefit, they should use the governments Medicare Advantage plan comparison tool. Using the plan comparison tool can help enrollees uncover what benefits are included in each MA plan to decipher which one they want.
Does Medicare Pay For Silver Sneakers
Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance companies approved by Medicare that must offer the same benefits as original Medicare. And, many of the Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits such as Silver Sneakers.
What is the silver sneakers age requirements?
As long as you are eligibile for Medicare Parts A and B, you can enroll in a participating Medicare Silver Sneakers plan.
This means that the private insurance companies are picking up the bill for Silver Sneakers and passing that benefit to you as a member.
This is how you are able to get your free Silver Sneakers membership.
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Do I Already Have Silver Sneakers
The most important thing you can do when choosing a Medicare Supplement plan is to focus on things like your doctor being in the network and your benefits.
We dont recommend choosing coverage based solely on the Silver Sneakers program, but with that being said, you can check out your plan eligibility here.
Staying In Shape And Feeling Good Is Important At Any Age
Do you want to:
- help improve your blood pressure and bone health?
- better manage conditions such as diabetes or arthritis?
- take advantage of exercise and activity options at the gym, in classes and through videos at home?
- meet other active folks and make new friends?
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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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Should Your Gym Have A Silver Sneakers Program
The U.S.’s senior population has experienced rapid growth over the past decade. In fact, more than 54 million US residents currently fall into the 65-and-older population, according to the United States Census Bureau. As the massive generation of Baby Boomers continues to age into retirement, this number will only grow.
The takeaway for gym owners? If your fitness business isn’t reaching out to seniors, you may be missing out on a significant opportunity to boost your revenue. Enter SilverSneakers. Here’s a closer look at this popular program and the many bottom line-boosting benefits of becoming a SilverSneakers fitness location partner.
What is SilverSneakers?
Maintaining routine physical activity is vital for seniors. In addition to supporting mobility and physical function, it can also help make day-to-day activities more comfortable. Not to mention that exercise is also associated with better mental health.
SilverSneakers provides an invaluable opportunity for seniors looking to stay fit. And the program’s extraordinary success speaks for itself. According to a 2019 survey published in the academic journal, Quality of Life Research, SilverSneakers members who frequently went to the gym had higher scores for both physical and mental health. Another survey found that SilverSneakers participants had lower total healthcare costs as well as smaller increases in healthcare costs over a two-year period.
The Benefits of Being a SilverSneakers Partner
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Lower Health Care Cost Claims
More than 35 documented case studies substantiate these facts: SilverSneakers improves the health and lifestyle of participants. Health care cost claims go down as a result. Independent studies demonstrate that people who use the program have reduced costs associated with chronic conditions, depression and overall physical and emotional health.
Find out more about how SilverSneakers can impact your members and your bottom line. Contact us at
How Can You Become A Silver Sneakers Member
You can become a SilverSneakers member by having an eligible health plan. Eligibility can be determined by contacting your health providers customer service department. SilverSneakers is offered to many Medicare plans throughout the nation.
SilverSneakers is a free insurance benefit that is included in Medicare programs for individuals who are over 65. A gym membership is given to those who qualify, typically at no cost. The membership allows members to access more than 13,000 fitness locations across the nation. As of March 2015, 11 million people have this benefit.
To begin enjoying the amenities SilverSneakers offers, individuals must bring their SilverSneakers membership identification or a temporary SilverSneakers card along with a health plan identification card to the gym facility.
Enrollment in SilverSneakers takes about 30 minutes, with extra time allotted for a tour of the location. Many locations offer access to treadmills, weights and stationary bicycles. Not every gym or fitness center offers SilverSneakers.
Classes offered are designed for full body conditioning and involve strength, endurance, flexibility, agility, balance and coordination training. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing, exercise balls and chairs are typically available for use. Each location provides individual or group tours so SilverSneakers members can become familiar with the equipment and classes.
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United Healthcare & Renew Active
If you havent heard the news, United Healthcare has decided to end Silver Sneakers Benefits for a ton of its customers and replacing it with their own program called Renew Active.
While it wont have the exact same benefits, according to Renew Active, they will allow members to visit a participating fitness location to receive standard access at no additional cost.
Your access will include a variety of exercise equipment, classes and group activities.
You choose the programs and location that are right for you.
Amenities may vary by location. You also receive access to BrainHQ, which features fun, online brain exercises and activities designed to keep your mind active.
You will be able to access Renew Active beginning on the effective date of your eligible Medicare Advantage health plan.
How To Get A Silversneakers Membership
If you have Original Medicare and youd like a SilverSneakers membership, you can see if theres a Medicare Supplement plan available in your area that includes the program. Medicare Supplement plans are supplemental health insurance plans that help cover costs like coinsurance, copays, or deductibles associated with your Medicare Coverage. Some plans even come with out-of-pocket limits, which Original Medicare doesnt offer.
You can learn more about Medicare Supplement plans, or, if youd like to see if theres a plan with SilverSneakers available in your area, call the number below.
You can also get SilverSneakers through a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Advantage is another way to receive Medicare benefits by bundling everything Part A and Part B offers, and often gaining access to extra benefits such as vision, dental, hearing, or even SilverSneakers. Keep in mind, however, that you can only switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage if you have an enrollment period .
You can learn more about Medicare Advantage, or, if youd like to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan that includes SilverSneakers, call a qualified agent with the number below.
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I Have Silversneakers And Have Access To Three Gyms But I Have No Transportation What Can I Do
Unfortunately, it does not look like SilverSneakers® offers transportation at this time. However, you do have options.
You can start by downloading the SilverSneakers® GO app, which includes exercises and activities that you can do from home.
You can also check with your Medicare Advantage plan to see if they offer transportation benefits, or find out if your city or county offers transportation that can get you to a gym.
For more information about Medicare transportation benefits, .
Which Parts Of Medicare Cover Silversneakers
Original Medicare does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs. Since SilverSneakers falls under this category, original Medicare doesnt cover it.
However, gym memberships and fitness programs, including SilverSneakers, are often covered as an additional benefit in Medicare Part C plans.
Private insurance companies approved by Medicare offer these plans.
Part C plans include the benefits covered by Parts A and B. They also typically have additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
Some Medigap policies will also cover gym memberships and fitness programs. Like Part C plans, private insurance companies offer Medigap plans. Medigap plans help to cover costs that original Medicare doesnt.
SilverSneakers members have access to the included benefits free of charge. Youll have to pay for anything that isnt covered in the SilverSneakers program.
If youre unsure about whats included at a specific gym, be sure to ask.
Additionally, its important to note that the specific amenities and classes available to you can vary by gym. You may have to search for a participating gym that meets your specific fitness needs.
SilverSneakers is a fitness program specifically geared toward older adults. It includes:
- access to gym facilities
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What Do I Do If My Plan Drops Silversneakers
There seems to have been a recent trend of companies dropping coverage for SilverSneakers. Recently, several YMCAs across the country have discontinued their partnership with SilverSneakers, no longer allowing people with a SilverSneakers membership into the popular recreation center. Just last fall, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee dropped its contract with SilverSneakers entirely according to a story from the Nashville Post.
Luckily, Medicare beneficiaries aren’t necessarily out of luck. If your plan drops SilverSneakers, your plan may replace it with a similar program such as Silver& Fitwhich was the case for BCBS of Tennessee. Or, if you want only SilverSneakers, you may be able to switch to a plan that offers it. If you need help, consider speaking to a licensed agent.
Find Silversneakers Locations Near You:
To find SilverSneakers® locations near you, or click on the buttons below. You can search by class type, amenity , or even gender if you prefer a women-only gym. Some examples of locations that may support the program are hospital wellness centers, select Planet Fitness locations, and other local gyms.
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Improve Lives Reduce Costs
For more than 20 years, health plans and employer groups have seen the benefits of partnering with SilverSneakers, the premier fitness program for boomers and beyond. While the program does include access to thousands of gyms, SilverSneakers is not a gym membership. It is a comprehensive program built specifically to help older adults experience their best health in mind and body.
Our comprehensive program includes cutting-edge proprietary programming, an expansive high-quality network of traditional fitness centers and community-based classes, CMS-compliant marketing, extensive account management support, credentialed fitness experts and much more.
