Understanding the Shift from SilverSneakers
For decades, SilverSneakers was a widely popular fitness program offered through various Medicare plans, providing seniors with access to thousands of gym locations and specialized classes. However, the landscape of Medicare benefits changed significantly when UnitedHealthcare decided to create and offer its own exclusive program, Renew Active, to its Medicare members. This change applied to all of its AARP-branded Medicare plans. As a result, beneficiaries with these plans no longer had SilverSneakers coverage and were automatically transitioned to the Renew Active program, provided their plan included it.
Introducing Renew Active: The AARP/UnitedHealthcare Program
Renew Active is a fitness and wellness program specifically designed for adults on UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans, many of which carry the AARP brand. Much like SilverSneakers, it offers a no-cost or low-cost gym membership. However, Renew Active stands out by emphasizing both physical and mental well-being. Its benefits often include:
- Extensive Gym Access: Members can visit a broad network of participating fitness centers and gyms nationwide. The network is often considered more extensive than SilverSneakers', potentially including more premium facilities.
- Online Fitness Resources: For those who prefer to work out at home, Renew Active offers thousands of on-demand workout videos and live-streaming fitness classes.
- Brain Health Focus: A unique feature is its partnership with the AARP Staying Sharp program. This includes online brain exercises, cognitive assessments, and lifestyle tools designed to promote mental sharpness and improve overall cognitive health.
- Personalized Fitness Plan: Members can benefit from an annual one-on-one session with a personal trainer to establish goals and create a customized fitness plan.
- Social Connection: Beyond fitness, the program fosters social connections through local clubs, wellness classes, and other community activities.
How Renew Active Compares to SilverSneakers
While both programs serve a similar purpose, there are key distinctions that can influence a senior's choice, which is ultimately determined by their health insurance plan.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Renew Active | SilverSneakers |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance Provider | Exclusively for UnitedHealthcare Medicare plans (many are AARP-branded). | Offered by many different Medicare Advantage and Medigap insurance companies. |
| Brain Health Component | Includes AARP Staying Sharp, with cognitive assessments and brain games. | Primarily focused on physical fitness and community. |
| Gym Network | Access to UnitedHealthcare's network, often described as larger with more premium options. | Access to thousands of partner gyms and community centers nationwide. |
| Home Fitness | Extensive library of online videos, live classes, and Fitbit community access. | Online resources, on-demand videos, and the FLEX community program. |
| Personalization | Includes an annual one-on-one session with a personal trainer for goal setting. | Less emphasis on personalized plans, more focused on class availability. |
Other Fitness Programs for Seniors
It's important to note that Renew Active and SilverSneakers are not the only options. Another prominent program is Silver & Fit, which is offered by a variety of insurance companies, including some Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. It provides similar benefits like gym access and online resources, sometimes with a low monthly fee. AARP members can also access other fitness discounts, such as special pricing for the Active & Fit Direct program, which is separate from their Medicare benefits. Additionally, AARP offers its own direct fitness portal, AARP Online Fitness, which provides digital classes and resources.
How to Determine Your Eligibility
Your eligibility for Renew Active or any other program depends entirely on your specific Medicare plan. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships. You must be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or certain Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans that include a fitness benefit. You can confirm your eligibility by:
- Contacting your health insurance provider directly.
- Checking your plan documents or online member portal.
- Visiting the official program website (e.g., uhcrenewactive.com) and using their eligibility tool.
Choosing the Right Program
For a senior with an AARP-branded UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan, the choice is typically already made: Renew Active is the program provided. However, if you are selecting a new Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, comparing the fitness benefits is a crucial step. Consider which features are most important to you—be it the brain health component, the network of gyms, or the variety of online classes. The best program is the one that best fits your individual health and wellness needs.
