Does AARP cover SilverSneakers? Your Guide to Senior Fitness Programs

As of early 2023, AARP-endorsed Medicare plans offered through UnitedHealthcare no longer include the SilverSneakers fitness program. This change has left many seniors confused about their gym access and health benefits, wondering, "Does AARP cover SilverSneakers?"

Quick Summary

AARP-endorsed Medicare plans, which are sold by UnitedHealthcare, replaced the SilverSneakers program with their own fitness offering, Renew Active, starting in 2023. Eligibility for Renew Active depends on having a specific UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan.

Key Points

• AARP/UHC Transition: AARP-endorsed Medicare plans, sold by UnitedHealthcare, discontinued SilverSneakers access and replaced it with their own program, Renew Active, in 2023.

• Renew Active Exclusivity: Renew Active is UnitedHealthcare's proprietary fitness program, and is only available to eligible members of their plans, including those endorsed by AARP.

• Check Eligibility: The most reliable way to confirm your fitness benefit is to check your specific UnitedHealthcare plan documents or call their customer service, not to assume based on AARP affiliation.

• Renew Active Features: This program includes access to a network of gyms, thousands of on-demand workout videos, and exclusive brain health content from AARP Staying Sharp.

• Alternative Fitness Options: If your plan doesn't cover a program, you can still find many free or low-cost fitness options through local senior centers, community programs, and AARP's online resources.

AARP and UnitedHealthcare's Fitness Program Change

For years, many seniors expected that their AARP membership, combined with a UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan, would automatically grant them access to the popular SilverSneakers program. This was a common assumption, and for a period, it was accurate. However, the fitness benefit landscape shifted significantly in early 2023. AARP's partner, UnitedHealthcare, transitioned from offering SilverSneakers to launching its own exclusive fitness program, Renew Active. This change means that if you have an AARP-endorsed Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan from UnitedHealthcare, your fitness benefit is now through Renew Active, not SilverSneakers.

Understanding the Shift to Renew Active

The transition was a strategic move by UnitedHealthcare to offer its own comprehensive wellness program to its Medicare members. Renew Active is designed to compete directly with programs like SilverSneakers by providing a similar, and in some aspects enhanced, set of benefits. This exclusivity is the primary reason why members with AARP/UnitedHealthcare plans can no longer access the SilverSneakers network.

What is Renew Active?

Renew Active is UnitedHealthcare’s dedicated fitness and wellness program for Medicare members. It offers a variety of resources designed to keep seniors active and engaged. The program works in a similar fashion to SilverSneakers, providing access to a network of participating gyms and fitness locations at no additional cost to eligible members.

Key features of Renew Active include:

• Extensive gym network: Access to a large network of participating gyms and fitness centers nationwide, though the network differs from SilverSneakers.
• On-demand fitness: A wide library of online workout videos and live streaming classes, giving members the flexibility to exercise at home.
• Brain health program: Exclusive access to AARP's Staying Sharp program, which includes online brain training games and content focused on cognitive health.
• Social and wellness events: Opportunities to participate in local health and wellness classes, clubs, and social events.
• Wearable device integration: Access to the Fitbit Community for Renew Active members, with thousands of workout videos and a focus on tracking progress.

Renew Active vs. SilverSneakers: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Understanding the differences between the two programs is crucial for those who are used to SilverSneakers or are considering their options. While both aim to promote active aging, their networks, features, and eligibility differ.

Feature	Renew Active (AARP/UnitedHealthcare)	SilverSneakers
Network Availability	Exclusive to eligible UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans.	Offered by many different insurance carriers (e.g., Aetna, Humana, BCBS).
Participating Gyms	Large network, partnering with over 25,000 gyms and fitness locations nationwide.	Extensive network, partnering with over 15,000+ gyms and community centers.
Exclusive Features	Includes AARP's Staying Sharp brain health program and Fitbit community access.	Known for its emphasis on community and social activities alongside fitness.
Accessibility	In-person and at-home options with online workouts and brain health tools.	In-person access at gyms and a wide variety of SilverSneakers FLEX online and community classes.

How to Check Your Eligibility for Fitness Benefits

Whether you're new to Medicare or are an existing AARP/UnitedHealthcare member, it's essential to confirm which fitness benefit you have access to. You can easily do this by taking the following steps:

1. Check your plan documents: Review the information provided by UnitedHealthcare for your specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan. Your benefits are outlined in your policy documents.
2. Use the UnitedHealthcare website: Log in to your UnitedHealthcare member portal. The website should clearly state which fitness program you are eligible for, along with how to find participating locations.
3. Call customer service: The most direct way is to call the customer service number on the back of your UnitedHealthcare insurance card. A representative can confirm your eligibility and answer specific questions.
4. Visit the Renew Active Website: For those with UnitedHealthcare plans, the Renew Active website is the primary resource for locating participating gyms and accessing online resources.

Options for those without Renew Active or SilverSneakers

If your current plan does not include a free fitness program, you still have many options to stay active and healthy. Don't be discouraged; consider these alternatives:

• Senior Center Programs: Many local senior centers offer free or low-cost fitness classes, including yoga, strength training, and walking groups. These centers often focus on the specific needs and abilities of older adults.
• Gym Discounts for Seniors: Some gym chains offer special discounts or memberships specifically for seniors who do not have a covered fitness program through their insurance. It's always worth asking about senior rates when you inquire about membership.
• Online and Community Resources: Websites and apps dedicated to senior fitness, like those on AARP's Staying Fit section, offer a range of on-demand and live workout videos for free. Community programs like those offered through local parks and recreation departments are also excellent resources. Click here for more ideas on senior wellness
• Employer and Retiree Plans: Some employer-sponsored retiree health insurance plans may include their own wellness benefits or provide gym membership discounts.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Senior Fitness Benefits

In summary, if you have an AARP-branded Medicare plan through UnitedHealthcare, you do not have SilverSneakers. Instead, your fitness benefit is Renew Active, a separate program with its own network of gyms and unique features, such as access to AARP's Staying Sharp brain health content. It is essential for seniors to confirm their eligibility directly through their insurance plan's resources to avoid any confusion. With numerous options available—from exclusive insurance programs like Renew Active and SilverSneakers to community centers and online resources—staying physically and mentally active is accessible for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my AARP membership automatically include SilverSneakers?

No, your general AARP membership does not include SilverSneakers. Access to the SilverSneakers program is a benefit offered through specific Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans from various insurance carriers, but not those endorsed by AARP through UnitedHealthcare.

What is Renew Active, and how is it different from SilverSneakers?

Renew Active is the fitness program offered exclusively by UnitedHealthcare to its eligible Medicare members, including those with AARP-endorsed plans. It differs from SilverSneakers in its network of gyms and included benefits, which feature access to AARP's brain health program, Staying Sharp.

Why did AARP stop covering SilverSneakers?

AARP, through its partnership with UnitedHealthcare, replaced SilverSneakers with the Renew Active program in 2023. The decision was made by UnitedHealthcare to provide its own proprietary wellness benefits to its members, rather than continuing to use a third-party provider.

How can I find out if my UnitedHealthcare plan covers Renew Active?

To confirm if your UnitedHealthcare plan covers Renew Active, you can check your plan's benefit documents, log in to your UnitedHealthcare member portal, or call the customer service number on your insurance card.

If my plan doesn't cover SilverSneakers or Renew Active, can I still get a gym discount?

Yes. Many local gyms offer senior discounts or low-cost membership options. You can also look for free or inexpensive fitness programs at local community centers, senior centers, or use free online resources provided by organizations like AARP.

Are the gyms in the Renew Active network the same as the SilverSneakers network?

No, the Renew Active and SilverSneakers networks are not the same. Renew Active has its own network of gyms and fitness centers, and locations that accept SilverSneakers may not participate in Renew Active, and vice versa.

Can I use my AARP card for a discount on a SilverSneakers membership?

A standard AARP membership card does not provide a discount or access to the SilverSneakers program. SilverSneakers is a benefit tied to specific health insurance plans and is not offered as a separate discount for AARP members.