Is SilverSneakers Still Around?
Yes, the SilverSneakers program still exists and is thriving, serving millions of seniors across the United States. The confusion surrounding its name stems from the fact that health plan benefits are subject to change. In recent years, certain large insurers have opted to replace their SilverSneakers benefit with alternative fitness programs. This was most widely publicized with UnitedHealthcare and AARP plans, but other insurers also offer different programs. The important takeaway is that the program itself has not been renamed; rather, its availability depends entirely on the specific insurance plan you have.
The Rise of Alternative Senior Fitness Programs
For decades, SilverSneakers was one of the most recognizable names in senior fitness. It was often assumed that any Medicare fitness benefit was SilverSneakers. This is no longer the case. The landscape of senior fitness benefits has evolved, and now several major players compete in the same space. UnitedHealthcare, for instance, created its own proprietary program called Renew Active. Similarly, other insurers may partner with different providers, such as Silver&Fit. This diversification of the market means that while one health plan offers SilverSneakers, another might offer Renew Active or a different program entirely, leading people to wonder, "What are SilverSneakers called now?" The answer is simple: nothing has changed for SilverSneakers, but your health plan might have changed its offering.
How to Confirm Your Fitness Program Eligibility
To find out if you are eligible for the SilverSneakers program, the best and most accurate method is to check directly through the official website. The process is straightforward and provides definitive confirmation of your benefits based on your insurance plan and personal information.
- Visit the official website: Go to the SilverSneakers website and navigate to the eligibility tool.
- Enter your information: Provide your personal details, including your Medicare number or insurance information, to check your status.
- Contact your insurer: If you prefer, you can also call your health insurance provider directly. Their customer service representatives can confirm what fitness programs are included with your plan.
Remember, your eligibility is tied to your specific Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers.
What SilverSneakers Offers Today
SilverSneakers has grown significantly since its inception in 1992 and now offers a comprehensive suite of fitness and wellness resources for its members. A membership includes:
- Access to a vast network: Members get unlimited access to thousands of participating fitness centers and community locations nationwide. This includes a wide range of facilities, from local gyms to national chains and YMCAs.
- Instructor-led classes: The program includes signature SilverSneakers group fitness classes led by certified instructors. These classes are designed specifically for older adults and focus on improving strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance.
- Online and virtual options: For those who prefer to work out from home, SilverSneakers offers an extensive library of on-demand workout videos and live, virtual classes. The SilverSneakers GO mobile app provides even more flexibility.
- Social connection: Beyond physical activity, SilverSneakers emphasizes the social component of well-being. It fosters a supportive community through in-person classes and events, helping to combat isolation and loneliness.
Comparing SilverSneakers to its Alternatives
If your plan no longer offers SilverSneakers, you might have access to an alternative program. Here’s a comparison of some popular options:
| Feature | SilverSneakers | Renew Active | Silver&Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance Providers | Many, including Humana, Aetna, and various Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. | Exclusively available through UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans. | Offered by multiple insurance providers, such as Blue Shield of California and Clover Health. |
| Network Size | Access to thousands of gym and fitness locations. | Extensive network of over 25,000 gyms and fitness locations. | Access to over 11,000+ participating fitness centers. |
| Online Content | Offers a wide variety of live online classes and an on-demand video library. | Includes a robust selection of online classes and on-demand workout videos. | Provides access to a library of online classes and healthy aging videos. |
| Exclusive Perks | SilverSneakers FLEX community classes and the SilverSneakers GO app. | Access to AARP's "Staying Sharp" brain-health program and personalized fitness plans. | Home fitness kits are available for members to use at their convenience. |
| Focus | A long-standing program focused on general fitness and social connection for seniors. | Strong emphasis on both physical and brain health, exclusively tied to UnitedHealthcare. | Concentrates on exercise and healthy aging videos, with options for at-home kits. |
The Final Takeaway: Always Verify Your Benefits
The initial question, "What are SilverSneakers called now?" is a valid one born from widespread changes in the Medicare landscape. While the program itself has retained its name and continues to provide valuable services, the confusion highlights a critical point for seniors: always double-check the benefits included in your specific Medicare plan. Choosing a plan based on its included fitness program is a common practice, but it's crucial to confirm coverage each year, especially during the annual enrollment period, to ensure your health plan includes the benefits that matter most to you.
Ultimately, whether you have SilverSneakers, Renew Active, or another program, the goal is the same: to provide accessible and engaging ways for older adults to stay physically and socially active. The name on the membership card may change depending on your insurer, but the benefits of staying active at any age remain constant. Check your eligibility on the official SilverSneakers website here.
