Silversneakers Health And Fitness Program
SilverSneakers® is a fitness and lifestyle program included at no additional cost when you become a Priority Health Medicare Advantage plan member. Enjoy getting fit and improving your health by staying active from the comfort of your home or at a fitness center. Learn new exercises and try fitness classes1 designed by experts for adults of all ages, fitness levels and abilities.
What Insurance Plans Include Silversneakers Coverage
Key Takeaways:
- Original Medicare does not cover SilverSneakers. However, many Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans do offer this benefit
- SilverSneakers coverage availability varies based on your state and which insurance provider you use
- Most Medicare insurance carriers offer SilverSneakers membership as a benefit. Well outline four options you can take advantage of
- SilverSneakers offers a range of online and in-person programming to seniors seeking to exercise with a community of peers. Well go over some of the key benefits of the program
Which Medigap Plans Have Silver Sneakers
Written by Brian Gruss
Silver Sneakers is a brand name for a wellness program that usually includes a gym membership with classes that are specifically designed for seniors. Needless to say, I am a big proponent of Silver Sneakers.
That being said, most Medigap plans do not offer access to Silver Sneakers. Typically a wellness program will be offered through a Medicare Advantage plan. Even at that Medicare Advantage plans have opted to create there own wellness programs to save the money of offering the branded Silver Sneakers program.
There are a few Medigap plans that offer Silver Sneakers or an in house wellness program. One thing to note though is there is an inherent cost to offering such wellness programs. This cost well be passed along the in the rates. A person looking for a Medigap plan that offers Silver Sneakers should look at the cost difference of that plan versus a plan that does not offer the program and paying for the gym membership themselves.
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Benefits Of Silver Sneakers
Social interaction and physical activity becomes more important the older you get. SilverSneakers makes this their goal when providing their services. Seniors will have a safe place to interact and exercise with other seniors.
Social interactions can have a major impact on well-being, especially for seniors. The older you get, the harder it is to get out and socially interact. SilverSneakers promotes this social interaction. In addition to workout classes, gatherings are held for members who want to get together and relax. Socializing is a major way to fight depression, which can be an issue for seniors. Mental and physical well-being go hand-in-hand, which is a major goal for SilverSneakers.
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.
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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.
Medigap Plans That Include Silver Sneakers
Humana is another company that offers Silver Sneakers but not in all of its plans, Blue Cross Blue Shield: The plans offered by BCBS are Medicare Advantage and CareFirst Med Plus Medicare Supplement plans, We advise that if you need theSilverSneakers partners with more than 60 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Insurance plans and is not a stand-alone program, when you first become eligible, fitness and friends, When you jump on a passingSilverSneakers is accessible for members of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Supplement plans,To qualify for SilverSneakers your clients need to have a Medicare Supplement that includes Silver Sneakers, SilverSneakers is an extra benefit in several of our Medicare Advantage plans,000 fitness centers Kick off
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What Silversneakers Programs Does Medicare Cover
SilverSneakers is a fitness program designed specifically for seniors.
If you enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan that offers SilverSneakers, you can gain access to:
- A wide network of gymsIf youre a member of SilverSneakers, youre not tied down to a single gym membership. You can work out at any participating gym in the SilverSneakers network.
- Community fitness programsSilverSneakers offers group exercise programs that extend beyond the gym. These take place at recreational centers, parks, pools, and other venues.
- A variety of classesMembers can head into a number of different classes on any given day. These range from tai chi, to yoga, to Latin dancing, to shallow-water exercise classes.
- A community of your peersSilverSneakers aims to create a sense of community among its members. In fact, about three quarters of members say they have friends in the program.
Mutual Of Omaha Senior Fitness Benefits
Recently, Mutual of Omaha Medicare Advantage plans began a wellness initiative with the Tivity Healths Prime Fitness network of over 10,000 workout locations. With the help of a mobile app, customers have access to many resources.
Further, the wellness program includes complementary and alternative medicine services like chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, and more. The program has a discount network with over 20,000 doctors.
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Who Is Eligible For Silversneakers
If youre a beneficiary under 65, you may qualify for an Advantage plan with SilverSneakers. There is NO age requirement!
The program requires the following:
- Enrollment in a plan that includes a membership
- If the gym membership costs an extra fee, you must pay the premium.
But, a plan must be available in your area. Some areas have a few options. While the program is helpful, its not suitable for everyone.
For example, those in Charleston, South Carolina might have more options than those in more rural areas.
If the company you want doesnt offer the program, call one us at the number above to find a solution.
Where Is Silversneakers Offered
There are thousands of SilverSneakers locations all over the U.S. You can use the SilverSneakers participating locations search tool to find a fitness center or gym near you that accepts SilverSneakers.
Some SilverSneakers programs are offered indoors at gyms and fitness centers. Other SilverSneakers programs include FLEX activities that are held outdoors at parks and recreation centers.
And if there arent SilverSneakers location near you, you can participate in free workouts at home. SilverSneakers offers a library of on-demand workout videos that can be accessed from a computer, tablet or smartphone. SilverSneakers will even send you your choice of four workout kits: general fitness, strength, walking or yoga.
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What Is Silversneakers And Which Insurance Plans Include It
Find out if plans in your area include this fitness program.
Everyday Health may earn a portion of revenue from purchases of featured products.Shutterstock
Health experts know the benefits of regular physical activity. So do insurance companies, which is why so many Medicare plans offer the SilverSneakers fitness program. If you have a plan with the SilverSneakers benefit, you can work out, take fitness classes, and even get advice from a personal trainer for free.
Whats most important is finding a Medicare plan that includes fitness benefits and meets your other health needs and personal goals. Heres what you need to know about which insurance plans include SilverSneakers or other fitness benefits.
You can only get SilverSneakers if youre enrolled in a participating Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan. SilverSneakers is a private fitness program only available to people with Medicare. Its not part of your Original Medicare coverage.
Currently, the following major insurance companies offer plans with the SilverSneakers fitness benefit:
- AARP
- UnitedHealthcare
- WellCare
Smaller companies in your area may be offering plans with SilverSneakers, so dont be discouraged if your preferred plan provider isnt on the list. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool to see whats available. You can also call a Medicare broker for information on local plans.
Silver Sneakers Vs Active And Fit Direct Program
When it comes to fitness programs, beneficiaries have plenty of options. SilverSneakers and Active & Fit Direct are both fitness programs that accommodate seniors.
The SilverSneakers program allows beneficiaries to have free access to gyms nationwide.
Members may have access to full use of gym equipment and benefits, including weights, cardio machines, saunas, pools, and hot tubs.
SilverSneakers offers fitness classes such as yoga, cardio-fit, circuit training, and water aerobics.
The Active and Fit program allows members to choose from over 9,000 facilities across the nation.
The program offers an online directory map and locator for fitness facilities. Also, you can switch fitness centers to make sure you find the right fit.
The Active& Fit Direct Program also offers online wellness tracking, which comes from a variety of wearable fitness devices. However, the program is only for individual or employer group members.
Active& Fit Direct continues to expand its growing network to meet the clients needs. This year there was an addition over 1200 facilities, including large chains, independent and local gyms.
Members can search the online directory for some of the nations finest fitness centers in their area.
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Why Take Advantage Of The Program
SilverSneakers is designed to help older adults stay physically fit and socially active. Membership provides access to more than 16,000 participating locations nationwide, including gyms, wellness centers and YMCAs.
You can visit the SilverSneakers official website to find a participating location near you.
SilverSneakers locations offer fitness classes targeted towards aging adults, including:
- Yoga
- Senior sports teams or recreational leagues
- Outdoor exercise activities
- And more
In addition, the Silver Steps program provides seniors who live in more rural areas access to personalized workout programs they can do from home and an online component to help keep members connected and motivated to stay healthy.
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Does Original Medicare Cover A Medicare Gym Membership
Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B. Part A covers some of your hospital expenses. Part B is for medical costs, like doctor visits and some equipment. Original Medicare does not cover all costs, however. It does not include coverage for prescription medications. It also does not offer a Medicare gym membership as one of its benefits.
Also Check: What Medicare Supplement Plans Offer Silver Sneakers
Does Medicare Cover Gym Memberships
Medicare doesnt cover the costs of fitness programs and gym memberships, although some Advantage plans include a gym membership.
Advantage plans can offer extra benefits that arent available through Medicare. People that sign up for an Advantage plan must pay the Part B premium and any plan costs.
Supplement plans are Medigap policies, and they dont include coverage for gym memberships.
Private companies offer different plan options. Beneficiaries should compare plan rates in their area.
What Is Silver Sneakers & Why Should I Be Interested
More than 60 health plans nationwide have partnered with Silver Sneakers to include this valuable benefit. Some of these include AARP Silver Sneakers , but they have discontinued this relationship in several states.
Many Medicare supplement and Medicare Advantage insurance plans include this benefit at no extra cost.
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Do Medigap Plans Include Silversneakers
Medigap plans are a type of Medicare supplement that can be purchased to cover certain Medicare expenses. SilverSneakers is a program outside of Medicare where participants get free access to fitness classes.
However, some Medigap plans do not include SilverSneakers as an option. In this article, we will discuss which Medigap plans include the SilverSneakers program, who is eligible to enroll, and other fitness benefits offered by Medigap.
What Medigap Plans Include Silversneakers
One of the most popular benefits included in some Medicare plans is membership in SilverSneakers fitness program. Membership in SilverSneakers is NOT included in Medicare Part A or Part B, but is included in all Humana Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans.
SilverSneakers is accepted at over 13,000 locations nationwide, giving members unrestricted access to all clubs by showing your SilverSneakers membership card at the fitness location. Many clients go to multiple gyms for different classes or other programs. Basically its like having membership in all clubs that accept SilverSneakers, including:
YMCA
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What Does Silversneakers Membership Include
The available amenities and fitness activities can vary by location. But some of the options that may be accessible to SilverSneakers members include:
- Group exercises
- Organized classes such as yoga, tai chi and many more
- Equipment for cardiovascular and strength training
- Education about health and nutrition
- Social activities and events
- Sports teams and leagues exclusively for seniors
Plus, youll have access to facility amenities such as saunas, hot tubs, pools, basketball courts and more.
If theres no SilverSneakers location near you, you may be eligible for a home exercise kit. The kit includes a workout DVD and any associated equipment you might need.
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Where You Can Find A Silversneakers Program
The SilverSneakers website suggests there are programs near most Americans. You can check at the SilverSneakers website or on the programs app for locations near you. And youll be able to find programs nearby when you travel.
The SilverSneakers smartphone app allows you to access fitness programs, track and schedule workouts and find participating SilverSneaker locations near you or where you plan to travel.
If your plan covers SilverSneakers, you can download a digital membership card on the app. It works on both iOS and Android phones and tablets and gives you access to your membership card at any time.
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Find A Medicare Insurance Plan That Includes Silversneakers
What Medicare insurance plans include SilverSneakers? Medicare beneficiaries may get free gym membership.
Each Medicare plan and insurance product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team in conjunction with our partners at Medicare Expert USA. If you make a purchase using the links included, Health.com may be compensated.
Key Takeaways:
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SilverSneakers is a program for Medicare beneficiaries offering free access to thousands of gyms and exercise classes nationwide.
-
Many Medicare Advantage plans and some Medicare Supplement plans include SilverSneakers.
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Insurance plans that offer SilverSneakers include Humana, Aetna, Avmed, Kaiser Permanente, Wellcare and United Healthcare.
Many Medicare beneficiaries enjoy SilverSneakers, which is a free fitness program that allows them access to gyms, weight training, group fitness classes, health education and fitness-related events.
Seniors who participate in SilverSneakers report that the program has a positive impact on their quality of life not only by giving their physical health a boost but also by providing social and emotional benefits as well.
If you’re ready to lace up your sneakers and get out there, we can help you find a Medicare plan that offers this benefit at no added cost to you.
What Are The Silversneakers Eligibility Requirements
- byChristian Worstell
- May 12, 2021
SilverSneakers, a popular exercise program for older adults, offers memberships to qualifying seniors who are enrolled in participating Medicare Advantage plans.
Before you choose your Medicare health plan, consider the SilverSneakers program and whether its something youd like included in your plans benefits.
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Do Medicare Supplements Offer The Silversneakers Program
For those who are eligible for Medicare or are 65+, the SilverSneakers® health and fitness program might be a free perk included with your Medicare plan.
Are you eligible for SilverSneakers®? Learn more about the SilverSneakers® program, which Medicare plans it comes with, and more.
â If youâre 65+ and are enrolled in Medicare, there are plans that offer free gym memberships as a part of your health insurance. It’s never been easier to get motivated and stay in shape! Learn more
Which Plans Offer Silver Sneakers
Remember most plans do not offer Silver Sneakers. Check out our Silver Sneakers Search tool to see if there are any in your area. You can see which Medigap plans participate in Silver Sneakers and can get quotes and apply directly.
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