Medicare Blog

medicare sneakers program what is it for

by Dr. Barbara Wyman Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access and fitness classes for older adults. It's covered by some Medicare plans. A 2019 study of SilverSneakers participants found that individuals with more gym visits had higher self-reported physical and mental health scores.

Does Medicare pay for the Silver Sneakers program?

If you have a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, your health insurance may include a free fitness membership for adults 65+ called SilverSneakers. A SilverSneakers membership includes access to roughly 14,000 recreation centers, churches, senior communities, and other neighborhood locations across the nation.

Does the YMCA Silver Sneakers plan come with Medicare?

Apr 06, 2019 · Silver Sneakers is a free fitness program for people receiving Medicare benefits with over 16,000 participating gym locations. It was founded in 1992 by Mary Swanson after her father survived a heart attack at the age of 51 causing him to become a regular at the gym and seeing a complete change in his health.

Does Medicare Part or B cover the Silver Sneakers program?

What is the Silver Sneakers® Program? SilverSneakers is a fitness program designed for seniors to help them stay healthy and fit. The benefit can be found in many Medicare advantage or supplemental health plans, typically at no additional cost over the premium you already pay.

Who offers Silver Sneakers program?

Apr 15, 2021 · SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access and fitness classes for older adults. It’s covered by some Medicare plans. A 2019 study of SilverSneakers participants found...

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What does SilverSneakers cover?

SilverSneakers is a fitness program designed for the 65+ crowd that provides access to gym memberships, weight training, aerobics, and group exercise classes. Many Medicare Advantage plans cover SilverSneakers.Jul 28, 2021

Does Medicare automatically include Silver Sneakers?

SilverSneakers comes automatically with qualifying Medicare health insurance plans. Eligible Medicare beneficiaries 65 years of age and older just need to get a SilverSneakers membership card to show at participating fitness locations.

What is AARP Silver Sneakers?

SilverSneakers is a private fitness program only available to people with Medicare. It's not part of your Original Medicare coverage. Currently, the following major insurance companies offer plans with the SilverSneakers fitness benefit: AARP.Sep 15, 2020

How do you qualify for Silver Sneakers?

In order to be eligible for the SilverSneakers Fitness program, you must be:65 or older, or eligible for Medicare because of a disability.Living in the U.S.Enrolled in a private Medicare plan that offers the SilverSneakers benefit.Nov 18, 2021

Is Silver Sneakers being discontinued?

Some of these include AARP Silver Sneakers (also known as United Healthcare), but they have discontinued this relationship in several states. Many Medicare supplement and Medicare Advantage insurance plans include this benefit at no extra cost.

What is annual fee for Silver fit?

$50What is the Annual Fee for Silver&Fit? The annual fee for a Silver&Fit membership is $50 to enroll in a Fitness Facility membership. The cost to enroll in the Home Fitness Program is $10. Call the Silver&Fit toll-free Member Services hotline at 1-877-764-2746 (TTY/TDD 1-877-710-2476) to enroll in either option.

Is Silver Sneakers an AARP benefit?

Does AARP Medicare Cover SilverSneakers? AARP Medicare plans no longer cover SilverSneakers as a benefit, but plan members may now take advantage of the Renew Active program.Jan 20, 2022

What is the difference between silver sneakers and renew active?

UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans that once covered SilverSneakers membership have replaced that coverage with a program called Renew Active. Renew Active is similar to SilverSneakers but also incorporates brain health activities.Nov 24, 2021

What is the Silver Sneakers program?

Silver Sneakers is a free fitness program for people receiving Medicare benefits with over 16,000 participating gym locations .

How to get Silver Sneakers?

The only way to get a Silver Sneakers membership is by enrolling in Medicare Part C , also known as Medicare Advantage, or a Medicare Supplement plan. A majority of the plans that include Silver Sneakers will be Medicare Advantage plans but you can find some Medicare Supplement or Medigap plans that include Silver Sneakers.

What is Flex class?

FLEX (which doesn’t seem to be short for anything,) is a fitness class given by certified instructors that takes place outside at parks or community centers and could be a range of things like Yoga, swimming, hiking or even Tai Chi. The FLEX program was created to change the way seniors think about fitness.

What is stability class?

Stability is the newest class designed to help you become stronger and improve balance. Offers the benefit of a high energy calorie burning workout without the pull that gravity plays on the body. Muscle incorporates athletic-based exercises that improve upper body conditioning. Strength.

How to choose a Medicare plan?

So how can you choose a Medicare plan that fits your needs? Follow the tips below to get started: 1 Think about your health needs. Since everyone has different health needs, it’s important to consider what kind of health or medical services you’ll need in the coming year. 2 Look at the coverage options. Compare the coverage provided in the different Medicare plans with your health needs. Focus on plans that’ll meet these needs in the upcoming year. 3 Consider cost. Costs can vary by the Medicare plan you select. When looking at plans, think about things like premiums, deductibles, and how much you’d be able to pay out of pocket. 4 Compare Part C and Part D plans. If you’re looking at a Part C or Part D plan, remember that what’s covered varies by each individual plan. Use the official Medicare site to carefully compare different plans before deciding on one. 5 Check the participating doctors. Some plans require that you use a healthcare provider in their network. Be sure to double-check to see if your healthcare provider is included in a plan’s network before enrolling.

What is a silver sniper?

SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that’s specifically aimed at adults age 65 and older. It includes the following benefits: use of participating gym facilities, including fitness equipment, pools, and walking tracks. fitness classes specifically designed for older adults of all fitness levels, including cardio workouts, ...

Does Medicare cover Silversneakers?

Original Medicare doesn’t cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers. However, some Medicare Part C and Medigap plans do. If you’re interested in SilverSneakers, check to see if it’s included in your plan or any plan you’re considering.

What are fitness classes?

fitness classes specifically designed for older adults of all fitness levels, including cardio workouts, strength training, and yoga. access to online resources, including workout videos as well as nutrition and fitness tips. promotion of a supportive community of fellow participants both in person and online.

What is a Part C plan?

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.

Is exercise important for seniors?

Medicare parts. Cost. Takeaway. Exercise is important for all age groups, including older adults. Making sure that you stay physically active can help to maintain mobility and physical function, lift your mood, and make performing your day-to-day activities easier. SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access ...

What is a silver sneaker?

SilverSneakers is a fitness program that focuses on getting elderly people out of their homes and into the gym and their community in order to improve “ overall well-being, strength and social aspects ” in seniors. (Note: SilverSneakers does not sell sneakers, nor does it provide you with sneakers to use.)

Who started Silversneakers?

The program was started in the early 1990s by Mary Swanson, who dedicated her career and life to help elderly people address their health and get in shape. Now, millions of seniors are enrolled in her program. By enrolling in SilverSneakers, you get free access to the following:

What are the best workouts for a beginner?

There are three options for BOOM classes available: 1 Move It: This high-energy dance class focuses on your conditioning, so you’ll definitely break a sweat during this one. 2 Muscle: This class centers on building strength and toning muscles. You’ll use free weights and cardio activities across different workouts focused on different muscle groups. 3 Mind: This is a combination of yoga and Pilates that helps relax the mind and build core muscle, balance, and overall strength at the same time.

Why is physical health important?

Your physical health is a primary concern at any age, but it becomes especially important as you transition into your elderly years where health concerns, doctor’s visits, and prescriptions can pile up. All of these factors can inhibit your ability to stay active, but it’s as important as ever to remain physically active and engaged as you age.

How to help autoimmune disease?

Rheumatoid arthritis: Working out can help improve range of motion and increase strength in the bones affected by this autoimmune disease. Osteoporosis: Weight lifting, cardio, and yoga can help build strong bones and improve posture and balance, which can then help prevent breaks and emergency room visits from falls.

Why is it important to be physically active?

Obesity: Being physically active can help you burn more energy than you consume, which helps to fight obesity. As a way of encouraging physical activity in the elderly, the program called SilverSneakers was created in the early 1990s.

What is circuit class?

It’s a low-intensity class. Circuit: The circuit class focuses on elderly people building upper body strength with weights and elastic bands. While the class is largely done standing up the whole time, chairs are available for support. This is a medium-intensity class.

Who is eligible for Silversneakers?

SilverSneakers® Eligibility. Anyone over the age of 65 who has a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan with the SilverSneakers® benefit included is eligible for the program. Whether or not your health plan includes the program will vary based on your location and the plan you selected.

What are the Boom classes?

Boom muscle classes use athletic exercises with a focus on the upper body, while Boom Mind classes are all about yoga and pilates. Boom Move is a way for you to exercise while having fun as you build your endurance while dancing.

What is stability class?

The stability class is great for those who need help with balance and strength around the ankles, knees, and hips. The exercises are mainly designed for fall prevention and can be adapted for any skill level.

Is Silversneakers Splash safe?

Since the classes happen in the shallow side of the pool, it is safe for non-swimmers.

Does Medicare cover Silversneakers?

You can find the SilverSneakers® benefit inside a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies but approved by Medicare. That means that they cover everything that Medicare covers, but can also add additional benefits (like fitness programs).

How to check eligibility for Silversneakers?

Anyone 65 and over who is on either a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement Plan that includes the SilverSneakers benefit. You can check your eligibility by going online to https://tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility , and you will find out whether you are eligible.

How to contact Silversneakers?

If you have any questions about SilverSneakers, you can contact customer service by phone at 866-584-7389, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or by email at [email protected]. 65Medicare.org is a leading, independent Medicare insurance agency for people turning 65 and going on Medicare.

How to contact Silversneakers?

For more information, call the SilverSneakers Customer Service hotline at 1-888-423-4632, Monday through Friday, from 8AM to 8PM ET (TTY users call 711). Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a SilverSneakers membership as a benefit. If you want help finding one, please let me know.

What is a silver sniper?

SilverSneakers is an exercise program specifically designed for older adults with the goal of keeping you engaged and interested through fun and social activities. Enjoyable fitness activities may encourage older adults to stay healthier in the long run. Find affordable Medicare plans in your area. Find Plans.

What is general membership?

General membership includes access to all participating locations and core services. In addition, the program offers: Program Advisors who serve as informational guides to fitness facilities and benefits.

What is Silversneakers Medicare?

SilverSneakers provides a unique approach to help seniors stay active and connect with friends at the same time. The SilverSneakers Medicare program is available only through select Medicare Advantage plans or a few Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans.

What is Medicare Advantage?

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.

What is a silver sniper?

SilverSneakers is a popular fitness program that helps Medicare beneficiaries 65 and up to increase physical health, social wellbeing, and strong community bonds. It does this by providing group fitness classes for all abilities facilitated by trained instructors.

How many classes are there in Silversneakers?

The SilverSneakers Medicare program offers over 70 types of fitness classes for all fitness levels, and each one is taught by a certified instructor. You can choose a class to help you meet a specific fitness goal—from mobility to building muscle.

What is the Boom Move class?

In the Boom series, there is a Boom Move class which is an aerobic dance class to improve cardio health, Boom Muscle which strengthens the major muscle groups, and Boom Mind which blends Pilates and yoga to improve core strength.

When did LA Fitness start?

LA Fitness SilverSneakers. Beginning in 1984, LA Fitness has grown into a national chain of over 600 fitness centers known for their various amenities, quality fitness equipment, and a variety of classes.

Is Planet Fitness a franchise?

Planet Fitness is one of the largest fitness center franchises in the United States. Much of Planet Fitness' popularity likely comes from low-cost memberships. Its reputation as a "judgment-free zone" likely helps too, appealing to gym-goers of all fitness levels.

What Benefits Are Provided?

SilverSneakers is a program that helps adults over the age of 65 stay physically active through a network of more than 17,000 gyms, community centers and fitness facilities in the United States.

Which Medicare Advantage Plans Offer This Benefit?

Medicare Advantage is available through private insurance companies. Typically, these health plans cover all of the services provided by Original Medicare and additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing and wellness.

How to Confirm a Health Plan Offers a SilverSneakers Benefit

Because Medicare Advantage plans vary, those who want a SilverSneakers membership should confirm directly with the insurance company that the benefit is included before enrolling. The SilverSneakers website also provides a search tool to connect seniors to participating health plans.

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