Is SilverSneakers a New Name? Understanding the Program Landscape
Contrary to popular belief, the name SilverSneakers has not been changed or rebranded by its owner, Tivity Health. The program continues to operate under the same name, providing gym access, group classes, and online resources to eligible adults. The root of the confusion lies in the decisions of certain insurance providers to drop SilverSneakers from their list of benefits. When a health plan makes such a change, it often introduces a different fitness benefit program in its place. This is a plan-specific decision, not a universal replacement or rebranding of SilverSneakers itself.
Renew Active: UnitedHealthcare's Exclusive Replacement
One of the most significant changes occurred when UnitedHealthcare discontinued SilverSneakers for many of its Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policyholders. Starting in 2019 for some plans and expanding to others since, UnitedHealthcare began offering its own program called Renew Active. This move sparked considerable confusion among members who previously enjoyed SilverSneakers and were suddenly transitioned to a new and exclusive program.
Key Features of Renew Active
Renew Active is a comprehensive fitness and wellness program designed to compete directly with SilverSneakers. It includes a network of gyms and fitness centers, though the network differs from SilverSneakers'. Unlike SilverSneakers, Renew Active also emphasizes brain health through a partnership with AARP's Staying Sharp program. This offers members access to online brain exercises, cognitive assessments, and lifestyle tools.
Here’s a snapshot of what Renew Active typically includes:
- Access to a large network of gyms and fitness locations.
- Thousands of on-demand workout videos and live-streaming classes.
- Brain health support through the Staying Sharp program.
- Personalized fitness plans and social engagement opportunities.
How to Check Your Eligibility for Renew Active
Eligibility for Renew Active depends on your specific UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan. Members receive information about the program directly from their insurer. Your unique confirmation code, which can be found by logging into your health plan's website or calling customer service, is necessary to activate your membership.
Other Competitors: Silver&Fit and One Pass
While Renew Active is the most notable replacement, other insurance providers offer alternative programs to SilverSneakers. For example, some plans, including those from Kaiser Permanente, may include access to the Silver&Fit program.
Silver&Fit is another popular senior fitness program that offers similar benefits to SilverSneakers and Renew Active, including:
- A network of participating fitness centers.
- At-home workout kits.
- On-demand videos.
- Personalized wellness tools.
Some insurers also offer access to the One Pass network, which can sometimes provide an even broader range of gyms and fitness facilities. It is crucial for seniors to review their health plan's specific details to confirm which, if any, fitness benefits they are eligible for.
What's New with the Original SilverSneakers?
While the program name remains the same, SilverSneakers has not been stagnant. It has evolved its own offerings to stay competitive in the market. One of its key developments is the SilverSneakers FLEX program.
The FLEX Program
The FLEX program expands access to fitness beyond traditional gym settings. It provides instructor-led classes in a variety of community locations, such as:
- Parks
- Community centers
- Churches
- Recreation centers
These classes offer variety with options like yoga, tai chi, strength and balance, and walking groups. This makes fitness more accessible for seniors who may prefer an alternative environment or a greater diversity of activities.
Online Resources and The Mobile App
SilverSneakers has also significantly bolstered its digital footprint with a suite of online offerings.
- SilverSneakers LIVE: Offers members live, virtual instructor-led classes.
- On-Demand Videos: Provides a vast library of pre-recorded workouts, wellness tips, and nutrition advice.
- SilverSneakers GO App: A mobile application that allows members to find participating locations, access their member ID, and track their fitness activity.
Comparison of Popular Senior Fitness Programs
| Feature | SilverSneakers | Renew Active | Silver&Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provider | Tivity Health | UnitedHealthcare | American Specialty Health |
| Availability | Offered by many insurance carriers (e.g., Aetna, Humana, BCBS) | Exclusively available with select UnitedHealthcare plans | Available through a variety of health plans, including some Kaiser Permanente plans |
| Network Size | Over 15,000 locations | Over 25,000 locations | Network size varies by plan |
| Brain Health Focus | Included in broader wellness offerings | Explicit focus with AARP Staying Sharp program | Included in broader wellness offerings |
| Online Classes | SilverSneakers LIVE & On-Demand | On-demand workouts & live-streaming | On-demand videos & workout kits |
| Community Classes | FLEX program at various community locations | Social activities at local wellness centers | Community classes may be offered depending on the location |
For more information on the official SilverSneakers program and its benefits, visit their official site here.
Conclusion: Verify Your Health Plan Benefits
In summary, the question of what the new SilverSneakers are called is based on a misunderstanding of market changes, not a rebranding. SilverSneakers remains an active program, but certain insurers, like UnitedHealthcare, have replaced it with their own programs like Renew Active. To avoid confusion, seniors should check their specific health plan documents or contact their insurance provider directly. This will confirm their eligibility for SilverSneakers or reveal if they have access to a different program like Renew Active, Silver&Fit, or another option entirely. Understanding these distinctions is key to maximizing your wellness benefits and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle.
