The Exclusive Carrier: UnitedHealthcare
Renew Active is a proprietary fitness program created and owned by UnitedHealthcare. Unlike its competitor, SilverSneakers, which is offered by a variety of insurance providers, Renew Active is only available to eligible members enrolled in specific UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans. This exclusivity is a key differentiator for the program and is crucial for those researching their Medicare options.
Renew Active and AARP Plans
Many people associate AARP with senior benefits, and it's important to clarify the relationship here. AARP does not offer its own insurance products but rather endorses insurance plans that are insured through UnitedHealthcare. This is why you will find Renew Active included with many AARP Medicare Supplement plans insured by UnitedHealthcare in certain states. If you have an AARP Medicare Supplement or a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan, you should check your specific policy details to confirm eligibility.
A Detailed Look at Renew Active Benefits
Beyond just a gym membership, the Renew Active program offers a comprehensive suite of wellness benefits designed for older adults.
Physical Fitness
- Free Gym Membership: Access to a large network of participating gyms and fitness locations across the country at no additional cost. The network can include major chains and local community centers.
- On-Demand and Live-Stream Classes: For members who prefer working out at home, Renew Active provides access to thousands of on-demand workout videos and live-streaming fitness classes.
- Personalized Fitness Plans: Members can receive an annual personalized fitness plan during a one-on-one session with a personal trainer at participating locations.
Brain Health
- AARP® Staying Sharp®: The program includes an online component focusing on brain health, featuring interactive games, assessments, and exclusive content developed in partnership with AARP®.
Social Connection
- Community Events: Members can stay connected by participating in local health and wellness classes, clubs, and events, such as walking groups and other social activities.
- Fitbit® Community: For those interested in tracking their progress and connecting digitally, Renew Active offers access to the online Fitbit® Community for members, which includes access to premium content. A Fitbit device is not required.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Enroll
If you have a UnitedHealthcare or eligible AARP plan, checking your Renew Active eligibility is straightforward.
- Online: Log in to your member account on the UnitedHealthcare website. Navigate to the 'Health & Wellness' section and look for information regarding fitness benefits.
- Phone: Call the customer service number located on the back of your insurance card. A representative can quickly verify if your specific plan and location include the Renew Active benefit.
- At a Gym: Visit a participating gym or fitness location and ask their staff to check your eligibility using your insurance card or confirmation code.
Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation code that can be used to enroll at a participating location.
Renew Active vs. The Alternatives: A Comparison
Understanding how Renew Active compares to other senior fitness programs, such as the widely available SilverSneakers, can help you make an informed decision when choosing a Medicare plan.
Feature | Renew Active | SilverSneakers |
---|---|---|
Available Through | Select UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans only. | Many different Medicare Advantage plans from various insurance carriers. |
Network Size | Offers a large national network, citing over 25,000 participating locations. | Has a large national network, citing over 15,000 participating locations. |
Core Benefits | Free gym access, live/on-demand classes, and personalized fitness plans. | Free gym access and in-person/online fitness classes. |
Brain Health | Integrates the AARP® Staying Sharp® program with assessments and exclusive content. | Limited brain health components compared to Renew Active. |
Personalized Plans | Includes an annual one-on-one session with a trainer for personalized goal setting. | Typically does not include personalized trainer sessions. |
Conclusion
While the search for What insurance companies offer Renew Active? leads to a single company, UnitedHealthcare, the program itself is expansive and comprehensive. It represents a significant benefit for eligible seniors, blending physical activity, brain health engagement, and social connection. For those considering a UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan or an AARP plan insured by UHC, Renew Active provides robust resources for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle in retirement. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always best to verify your eligibility directly with the plan provider.
To explore more details about the program and to find a location near you, you can visit the official Renew Active website at www.uhcrenewactive.com.