Medicare Blog

what is silver sneakers through medicare

by Miss Amie Cole DDS Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The SilverSneakers program provides health and fitness benefits for adults 65 and older. It includes live online fitness classes, on-demand videos, and access to thousands of gyms across the country.

Which Medicare Advantage plans offer Silver Sneakers?

Which insurance companies offer SilverSneakers? Some of the health insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans offer at least one plan that includes SilverSneakers membership. Some Medicare Advantage plan carriers that you may consider include: Aetna; Humana; UnitedHealthcare; Anthem Blue Cross

Does Medicare pay for the Silver Sneakers program?

Since SilverSneakers falls under this category, original Medicare doesn’t 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.

What insurances offer Silver Sneakers?

Some Medicare Advantage plans offer valuable additional benefits, such as:

  • Vision coverage
  • Dental coverage
  • Hearing coverage
  • Fitness program coverage (including gym memberships or discounts)
  • Transportation to doctor visits
  • Over-the-counter drug coverage
  • Other services that promote health and wellness

Does Medicare include Silver Sneakers?

Some of these AARP Medicare plans used to offer a free membership to the SilverSneakers fitness program. But in 2018, UnitedHealthcare announced that it would no longer include SilverSneakers as a Medicare plan benefit, but they would instead offer a program called Renew Active.

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Is Silver Sneakers go free?

SilverSneakers benefits are provided to members free of charge. If you want to use gym or fitness services not included in SilverSneakers, you'll have to pay for them.

Does Medicare have Silver Sneakers benefit?

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.

What does a Silver Sneakers plan cover?

Question #1: What Is SilverSneakers? SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program designed for adults 65+ that's included with many Medicare Plans. SilverSneakers members can: Access live online fitness classes and an on-demand video library of prerecorded workouts.

How much does silver sneaker cost?

Silver Sneakers is a private health and fitness membership program designed for seniors. It's available at no cost to those enrolled in a participating Medicare Advantage plan. There are over 16,000 participating Silver Sneaker gym facilities and 70 different types of health and fitness classes available nationwide.

Does Medicare Part B Cover Silver Sneakers?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not include the Silver Sneakers fitness program. The only way you can receive a Silver Sneakers membership is if you apply and enroll in either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement plan that offers a Silver Sneakers membership along with the plan.

What exercise programs are covered by Medicare?

Original Medicare doesn't cover the cost of gym memberships or fitness programs. Most Medicare Advantage plans offer participation in national fitness programs like SilverSneakers or offer members an allowance for fitness program reimbursement. Medigap plans sometimes cover fitness benefits.

Does Medicare supplemental plan g cover Silver Sneakers?

The program that many Medicare Advantage plans include in their coverage is SilverSneakers. This program doesn't cost anything extra for policyholders, and they pay for it when they pay their deductibles or premiums each year or each month.

How do you become a Silver Sneakers member?

To be eligible for SilverSneakers, you must join a participating Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan. If you are already enrolled in one of those types of private insurance plans, you can visit SilverSneakers.com to see if your current plan offers the program.

Are silver sneakers and silver and fit the same?

Are SilverSneakers ® and Silver and Fit ® the Same? SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit® are both Medicare fitness programs, but they are not the same. They are two separate companies offering similar benefits.

Which Medigap plans have silver sneakers?

SilverSneakers is available for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Supplement plans. The program is also available within many Anthem Medicare Advantage plans.

How do I print my silver sneakers card?

Go to SilverSneakers.com/StartHere and create your online account. 2. Log in to view or print out your member ID number. 3.

Does Silver Sneakers have a new name?

The company has replaced SilverSneakers with coverage for a different program called “Renew Active.”

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, ...

Can you use a Silversneakers membership card to enroll in a gym?

SilverSneakers members have access to any gym that participates in the program. You can use your membership card to enroll at your gym of choice. You’ll then have access to all SilverSneakers benefits free of charge. Tips for choosing the best Medicare plan for your needs.

Is Silversneakers covered by Medicare?

SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access and fitness classes for older adults. It’s covered by some Medicare plans. of SilverSneakers participants found that individuals with more gym visits had higher self-reported physical and mental health scores. Keep reading to learn more about SilverSneakers, ...

Can you sign up for Silversneakers?

If your plan covers the SilverSneakers program, you can sign up for it on the SilverSneakers website. After signing up, you’ll be provided with a SilverSneakers membership card with a member ID number. SilverSneakers members have access to any gym that participates in the program.

Is Healthline Media a licensed insurance company?

Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S . jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance. Last medically reviewed on April 19, 2020.

Does Medicare cover Silversneakers gym memberships?

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 ...

When to enroll in Silversneakers Advantage Plan?

If you missed the open enrollment, you have to wait, and enroll between October 15 and December 7 or switch to a Medicare advantage plan with SilverSneakers benefits.

What is a silver sniper?

SilverSneakers is a fitness program that is specifically targeted to seniors in order to help them stay fit and healthy. In participating fitness and wellness centers, gyms and YMCAs and currently also online, you will find specially trained instructors to teach SilverSneakers classes.

How long does Medicare enrollment last?

You will have an ‘initial enrollment’ period for Medicare that lasts from 6 months prior to 6 months past your 65th birthday. If you miss this time period, you may be able to join a supplemental policy at a later time, but you won’t have a ‘guaranteed right’ to be accepted anymore.

Can you get Medicare Advantage with Silver Sneakers?

If you are eligible for Medicare , you may select to enroll in an advantage or supplement plan which includes Silver Sneakers benefits, if it is available in your geographic area. The program is currently included in many Medicare advantage, Medicare supplement and group retiree plans nationwide. You may use the SilverSneakers Health Plan Locator ...

Can you join Silversneakers at any time?

However, if a 5 Star Rated Medicare advantage plan with SilverSneakers is available to you, you may join that plan at any time during the year. Check with Medicare.gov for available 5 Star Rated Medicare advantage plans in your area.

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.

Is Silversneakers Classic good?

Overall, SilverSneakers Classic is a good way to help increase range of motion and muscle strength to make daily activities easier and improve overall well-being.

Can you get a Silversneakers membership without Medicare?

You must be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan that includes the SilverSneakers program membership. You can’t get a membership for the SilverSneakers Medicare program without being enrolled in a qualifying plan. To check your eligibility for the SilverSneakers program (and ...

Can you still use Silversneakers?

With most gyms closing across the country from the COVID-19 pandemic, can you still use your SilverSneakers membership? As a matter of fact, you can. If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes SilverSneakers, you can work out from home and keep your social distancing game strong with video workouts.

Which Medicare Plans Cover SilverSneakers?

Most Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans include a SilverSneakers membership. First, you must be signed up for Original Medicare. Then you can select a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes SilverSneakers.

How Much Does SilverSneakers Cost?

There is no cost to you if you have SilverSneakers included in your Medicare Advantage plan.

What Is The Eligibility For SilverSneakers?

If you’re 65 or older and have Original Medicare, you’re eligible for SilverSneakers. Just be sure you’re enrolled in a Part C Medicare Advantage plan that includes SilverSneakers benefits. See if you qualify.

How Does SilverSneakers Work?

Once you have enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes SilverSneakers, you can go to the SilverSneakers website to sign up. When you register, you'll receive your own personalized ID card with your SilverSneakers number.

How SilverSneakers Benefits Seniors On Medicare

SilverSneakers focuses on important areas of health and wellness for seniors.

SilverSneakers And The FLEX Program

If you're enrolled in SilverSneakers, you also have access to FLEX workout classes for older adults. FLEX goes beyond weights and treadmills. It includes more than 70 types of classes, such as yoga, tai chi, Zumba®, and more. FLEX classes also feature professional instructors who understand what it takes to stay fit after 65.

Take Advantage Of SilverSneakers Programs

SilverSneakers offers a wide variety of fitness benefits and programs to fit many different needs. In addition to physical benefits, exercise for older adults has been proven to have mental health benefits, too. It can even lower your healthcare costs.

Just how important is exercise for seniors?

It’s no secret that as we age, our physical bodies can tend to become weaker, possibly affecting our health and quality of life. For this reason, medical and wellness experts across the globe continue to stress the importance of staying physically active and practicing healthy lifestyle habits, even after retirement.

What is the SilverSneakers program?

SilverSneakers is a fitness and wellness program that is offered at no additional cost to seniors 65 and older who are current beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage plans that include it. The program’s primary goal is to promote physical activity, fitness, and social connection with others through exercise classes and activity-focused events.

Are you interested in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes the SilverSneakers program? We can help!

The SilverSneakers program is just one possible benefit to getting on a more comprehensive Medicare plan. Often, Medicare Advantage plans can also provide you with additional healthcare coverage for needs like vision, hearing, and dental care.

What is Silversneakers community?

What they all know: SilverSneakers is more than a fitness program, and often it’s the friendships that people make that keep them coming back. Many SilverSneakers groups even plan social events outside of classes, like potlucks or outings around town.

What can you use in Silversneakers?

Facilities, amenities, and classes vary by location, but if available, that generally means you can use: Cardio equipment, such as treadmills and ellipticals. Strength equipment, such as weights and strength machines.

What classes do Silversneakers take?

Cardio and strength classes, which often offer a chair for support. Water aerobics classes. Chair and standing yoga classes. Tai chi, boot camp, and so much more! SilverSneakers classes are led by supportive instructors who are trained in senior fitness.

Is Silversneakers a Medicare plan?

SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program designed for adults 65+ that’s included with many Medicare Plans, but there’s no age requirement. If you have a Medicare Plan, you can check your SilverSneakers eligibility instantly here.

Does Silversneakers work?

According to SilverSneakers members, it works. In fact, 94 percent of members rate their health as excellent, very good, or good. And 88 percent say SilverSneakers has improved their quality of life.

Is Silversneakers included in Medicare?

If SilverSneakers is included in your Medicare Plan, you can have all of that—at no additional cost to you. To help you learn more and take advantage of SilverSneakers, we put together this handy guide to answer your questions.

Can you join Silversneakers on Zoom?

Yes, and lots of them! If you’re a SilverSneakers member, you get access to both live online classes and prerecorded video workouts. SilverSneakers LIVE offers full-length SilverSneakers classes live through Zoom. With over 50 classes a week, there’s something for everyone.

Why take advantage of Silver Sneakers?

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.

What is a Silversneaker?

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 it’s something you’d like included in your plan’s benefits.

How old do you have to be to get Silversneakers?

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.

What is Silver Steps?

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.

Does Medicare Advantage include Silversneakers?

Some of the health insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans offer at least one plan that includes SilverSneakers membership. Plan availability and specific plan benefits may vary depending on where you live and the type of plan you have.

Can you add Silversneakers to Medicare?

Your plan either offers SilverSneakers or it doesn’t — you can’t add it on separately. If you’re interested in joining a Medicare Advantage plan in your area that does include SilverSneakers, one of our licensed insurance agents can help you explore your options.

What is a silver sneaker?

SilverSneakers is an exercise and wellness program designed for seniors who are 65 and older. With SilverSneakers, you get access to: Fitness equipment at more than 16,000 gyms and community locations across the country. 2.

What do you need to know about Silversneakers?

Here’s What You Need to Know About the SilverSneakers Program. Staying active is important at any age, but perhaps no more so than in your senior years. The health benefits of exercise for the senior population are widely acknowledged by both physicians and scientific researchers. But if the cost of a gym membership is giving your wallet too much ...

What is the phone number for Silversneakers?

As a test, we pulled data for the state of Georgia and found the following insurance plans include SilverSneakers: If you don’t see your health plan listed online and want to confirm, give SilverSneakers a call at 866-584-7389 or drop them an email at [email protected].

Is Silversneakers membership card digital?

Much like Costco , SilverSneakers is making your membership card digital. That means it’s available through their free app ( iOS and Android) and lives on your smartphone. So you never have to worry about losing it! Meanwhile, if you have to replace a lost or stolen physical card, simply call (888) 423-4632.

Is there an age requirement for Silversneakers?

However, there’s actually no age requirement for the program. Instead, anyone who has a qualifying Medicare Advantage plan is eligible for SilverSneakers. Also eligible are those who have health insurance through Medicare Supplement carriers and many group retiree plans. 4.

Can you get a free gym membership with Silversneakers?

In fact, you can get a free gym membership through Silver Sneakers if you qualify. In this article, we’ll take a look at SilverSneakers eligibility, how the program works and how to get your SilverSneakers card, among other topics.

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