Understanding the SilverSneakers Go App
SilverSneakers Go is a mobile fitness app designed to make staying active easier for older adults. The app functions as a digital companion to the broader SilverSneakers program, which provides access to gyms and live classes. It was developed by Tivity Health, the company behind SilverSneakers, to help seniors track their fitness goals, find nearby classes, and access on-demand workout content. This allows users to stay engaged with their fitness routine, whether at home or on the go.
Access for SilverSneakers Members
For those enrolled in a qualifying Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan that includes SilverSneakers benefits, the SilverSneakers Go app is fully accessible and completely free. Your health insurance provider pays for your membership as part of your plan benefits, so there are no extra costs for using the app's full capabilities.
Key features available to eligible members include:
- Customized workout programs: Tailored 4- to 12-week plans focusing on strength, walking, or meditation.
- Nearby class finder: Search for thousands of participating gyms and community centers.
- Digital member ID: An in-app member card for checking in at fitness locations.
- Activity scheduling: Plan and get reminders for workouts, gym visits, and online classes.
- Progress tracking: Monitor your fitness journey and celebrate achievements.
Access for Non-Members
If you are not yet a SilverSneakers member, you can still download and use the SilverSneakers Go app for free, but with limited features. This offers a valuable way to sample some of the program's content and decide if it's the right fit for your needs. Limited access often includes a selection of on-demand videos and general fitness tips. While it provides a taste of what SilverSneakers offers, it does not include the personalized programs, live class access, or gym location finder available to full members.
SilverSneakers Go vs. the SilverSneakers Program
It's important to differentiate between the app and the broader program, as they are not the same thing. The app is a tool for accessing the program's benefits, not the entire program itself.
| Feature | SilverSneakers Go App (Full Access) | SilverSneakers Program (In-Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free with eligible Medicare plan | Free with eligible Medicare plan |
| Requires a plan | Yes | Yes |
| Workout Location | At-home, gym, or anywhere with your phone | Participating gyms, community centers, parks |
| Workout Format | Guided video workouts, activity tracking | Live, instructor-led classes (FLEX), gym equipment |
| Access | Download via app stores | Access with membership ID at locations |
| Benefits | Digital tools, tracking, on-demand videos | In-person social interaction, varied amenities, live classes |
How to Determine Your Eligibility
To find out if you qualify for a full, no-cost SilverSneakers membership (which includes full access to the app), you need to check your Medicare plan. Since Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover gym memberships, eligibility depends on having a qualifying Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medigap plan.
To check your eligibility, you can:
- Check online: Use the eligibility tool on the official SilverSneakers website.
- Contact your insurer: Call the member services number on your health insurance card and ask if SilverSneakers is included in your plan.
- Review plan documents: Look over your benefits summary for any mention of SilverSneakers or fitness programs.
Why some plans include SilverSneakers
Private insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans often include supplemental benefits like SilverSneakers to attract new members and promote better health among existing ones. For many older adults, staying active can lead to better health outcomes and lower healthcare costs over time.
The Benefits of Using SilverSneakers Go
Using the SilverSneakers Go app offers numerous benefits beyond just tracking your steps.
- Flexibility: Workout anytime, anywhere.
- Motivation: Scheduled activities and progress tracking keep you engaged.
- Accessibility: Workout videos can be adjusted for your fitness level, making exercise safe and effective.
- Convenience: Easily find nearby fitness centers and get directions.
- Community: For eligible members, the app helps connect you to the wider SilverSneakers community, including live online classes.
Expanding Your Fitness Horizon
Even if your current insurance plan doesn't cover the full SilverSneakers program, you have other options. Many community centers and local YMCA branches offer affordable senior programs. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the SilverSneakers Go app provides some free content for everyone. For more resources on active aging, the National Institute on Aging offers excellent guidelines on exercise and physical activity for older adults. They provide authoritative information and tips for staying healthy at any age, which can be found on their website nia.nih.gov.
Conclusion: The Cost Depends on Your Plan
In short, the SilverSneakers Go app itself is free to download for everyone. However, full access to all its features, including premium workouts and the gym finder, is an included benefit for those with an eligible Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan. Limited features are available at no cost to all users. If you're an older adult looking for a fitness program, checking your insurance benefits is the best first step to unlock the full potential of SilverSneakers Go and its comprehensive senior fitness offerings.
