What are SilverSneakers and how do they work?

According to a 2018 study, older adults in fitness programs showed significant increases in physical activity and self-rated health. This makes programs like What are SilverSneakers and how do they work?, an invaluable resource for maintaining an active lifestyle, especially for those eligible for Medicare.

Quick Summary

SilverSneakers is a senior fitness program included with many Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, offering free access to thousands of gyms and virtual classes, empowering older adults to stay active and socially connected. It is designed to encourage seniors to exercise regularly for better physical and mental health.

Key Points

• Medicare Benefit: SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program offered as a benefit with many Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, not Original Medicare.

• Free Access: For those with an eligible plan, the membership is at no additional cost, providing unlimited access to a network of gyms and classes.

• Diverse Options: The program includes access to physical gyms, live online classes, on-demand videos, and community-based FLEX classes, catering to different preferences and mobility levels.

• Key Benefits: It helps improve crucial aspects of senior health, including stamina, strength, balance, and flexibility, while also fostering social connections.

• Simple Enrollment: To get started, eligible seniors just need to check their plan and register online to receive their member ID for access.

• Community Focused: SilverSneakers places a strong emphasis on community, providing social opportunities that combat loneliness and contribute to mental well-being.

What is the SilverSneakers Program?

SilverSneakers is a comprehensive health and fitness program designed specifically for adults aged 65 and older. Rather than a membership you purchase directly, SilverSneakers is offered as a supplemental benefit by many Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance plans. When included in a plan, it provides members with access to a vast network of thousands of fitness locations across the country, as well as a wide range of online and community-based fitness options, all at no extra cost.

The program's mission is to help seniors stay physically active, improve their overall health, and foster social connections. It provides the tools and resources for older adults to engage in regular exercise, which is crucial for preventing or managing chronic diseases, maintaining independence, and boosting mental well-being.

How the Program Works: A Simple Process

The operation of SilverSneakers is straightforward and relies on your health insurance plan. If your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan includes the SilverSneakers benefit, you are eligible for membership. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how it works:

1. Check Eligibility: You must first confirm that your health plan offers the SilverSneakers benefit. You can do this by checking online on the SilverSneakers website or by calling your insurance provider directly.
2. Register for a Member ID: Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can register on the SilverSneakers website. This process will provide you with a unique 16-digit member ID, which acts as your digital membership card.
3. Access Benefits: With your member ID, you can start using the program's benefits immediately. You can show your digital or printed ID at any participating fitness location to gain access to their facilities.

Unlike Original Medicare (Parts A and B), which does not cover gym memberships, private insurers offering Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans have the flexibility to include perks like SilverSneakers to attract and retain members.

Benefits and Features of SilverSneakers Membership

A SilverSneakers membership is more than just access to a gym. It's a holistic program designed to meet the diverse needs of older adults, offering a variety of ways to stay active.

Access to Fitness Centers

• Unlimited Access: Members get unlimited, no-cost access to a nationwide network of gyms and fitness locations, including many popular chains.
• Standard Amenities: This access typically includes standard gym equipment such as cardio machines, weight training equipment, and walking tracks. Some locations may also include amenities like pools and saunas.

Online and Virtual Fitness

• SilverSneakers LIVE: This feature offers hundreds of live online fitness classes each week via Zoom, led by supportive and specially trained instructors.
• On-Demand Videos: A library of prerecorded workout videos is available for members to use anytime, anywhere, and covers everything from cardio and strength to balance and nutrition tips.
• SilverSneakers GO™ App: The mobile app allows members to find locations, track progress, and access their digital member ID.

FLEX Community Program

The FLEX program extends fitness options beyond traditional gyms by offering instructor-led classes at non-traditional locations, such as parks and community centers. These classes include a wide variety of activities, such as:

• Yoga
• Tai Chi
• Zumba®
• Cardio and strength training
• Fall prevention workshops

How to Get Started with SilverSneakers

Ready to get more active? Here’s what you need to do:

1. Verify your coverage. Use the eligibility checker on the SilverSneakers website or call your insurance company to see if your plan includes this benefit.
2. Create an account. Go to the SilverSneakers website and create your free online account to get your member ID. You can also get the SilverSneakers GO app for convenience.
3. Find a location. Use the online location finder to discover participating gyms and FLEX classes in your area.
4. Start your fitness journey. Take your member ID to your chosen location and begin exercising. Remember to always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program. For more information and to check your eligibility, you can visit the official SilverSneakers website at https://www.silversneakers.com/learn/howitworks/.

Comparing SilverSneakers to Other Senior Programs

SilverSneakers is not the only senior fitness program on the market. Some health plans may offer alternatives like Renew Active, particularly those from UnitedHealthcare. While both aim to improve senior wellness, there are key differences.

Feature	SilverSneakers	Renew Active
Insurance Providers	Offered by a variety of Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans from many different companies.	Exclusively available through select UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans.
Gym Network	Partners with thousands of locations nationwide, including gyms and community centers.	Partners with a slightly larger network, often including premium gym options.
Virtual Offerings	SilverSneakers LIVE and On-Demand classes, plus the SilverSneakers GO app.	Offers extensive online resources and a focus on brain health through AARP's Staying Sharp program.
Community Focus	Strong emphasis on social connections through in-person classes and events.	Includes social features, but with a unique focus on intellectual enrichment through brain games.

The Holistic Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

Beyond the specific program features, participating in a fitness program like SilverSneakers delivers significant health and quality-of-life improvements. Consistent physical activity has been shown to improve stamina, strength, flexibility, and balance, which reduces the risk of falls and makes everyday tasks easier. Mentally and emotionally, regular exercise is linked to better brain health, a lower risk of depression and anxiety, and improved self-esteem. Moreover, the social component of group classes and community events helps combat social isolation, a common issue for seniors that can have serious health consequences. By providing accessible and social ways to get active, SilverSneakers contributes to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling retirement.

Conclusion

SilverSneakers is a valuable fitness program that provides eligible seniors with access to a wide network of gyms, a variety of online and in-person classes, and a supportive community. Functioning as a benefit through participating Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, it eliminates the financial barrier to regular exercise, empowering older adults to take control of their health. By understanding what SilverSneakers is and how it works, seniors can leverage this resource to improve their physical fitness, enhance their social life, and enjoy a higher quality of life. The comprehensive nature of the program, from live virtual classes to community-based activities, makes it a powerful tool for healthy aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age requirement for SilverSneakers?

While it is a program for older adults, there isn't a strict age requirement. The program is available to those who qualify for Medicare, which is generally for people 65 and older, or those with specific disabilities or chronic conditions.

Does Original Medicare cover SilverSneakers?

No, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers. Coverage is only available through participating Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans.

How do I check if my health plan includes SilverSneakers?

You can check your eligibility online by visiting the SilverSneakers website and using their eligibility checker tool. You can also contact your insurance provider directly to confirm if it is a benefit included in your plan.

How do I find a gym location near me?

The SilverSneakers website has a 'Location Finder' tool where you can enter your zip code or address to find a map of all the participating gyms and community centers in your area.

Are SilverSneakers classes suitable for beginners?

Yes, SilverSneakers offers a wide variety of classes designed for all fitness levels. Many of their classes, such as 'SilverSneakers Classic,' are perfect for beginners and focus on foundational strength and movement.

Can I use more than one gym location?

Yes, SilverSneakers members have unlimited access to any of the thousands of participating locations across the nation. This means you can use different facilities and classes wherever you are.

What is the difference between SilverSneakers and Renew Active?

The main difference is the insurance provider network. SilverSneakers is offered by a variety of insurance companies, whereas Renew Active is an exclusive benefit for select UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans.

Is there a cost for SilverSneakers if it's in my plan?

If SilverSneakers is included as a benefit in your qualifying health plan, your membership to the program is free. However, extra services at a gym not covered by a basic membership would be an additional cost.