Which insurance companies offer the Silver Sneakers program?

According to one study, older adults participating in fitness programs like Silver Sneakers reported significant increases in physical activity and self-rated health. If you're seeking to join this community, you may be wondering which insurance companies offer the Silver Sneakers program as part of their benefits.

This authoritative guide will walk you through the major providers who participate, helping you find a plan that supports your wellness goals.

Quick Summary

Several major insurance carriers, including Aetna, Humana, and many Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, offer Silver Sneakers through eligible Medicare Advantage and Medigap policies. The specific plans and availability depend on your location, and it's important to note that UnitedHealthcare has transitioned to its own Renew Active program.

Key Points

• Major Providers: Aetna, Humana, and many Blue Cross Blue Shield plans are key insurance carriers that offer the Silver Sneakers program.

• Eligibility Varies: A Silver Sneakers membership is tied to specific Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, so coverage depends on your exact plan and location.

• UnitedHealthcare's Alternative: As of 2019, UnitedHealthcare replaced Silver Sneakers with its own fitness program, Renew Active, for many Medicare members, including AARP plans.

• Check Your Eligibility: You can quickly and easily confirm if you are covered by visiting the official Silver Sneakers website and using their online eligibility tool.

• Not Original Medicare: The benefit is not included with Original Medicare (Parts A and B); it must be a feature of a qualifying private supplemental plan.

• Verify Annually: Insurance plan benefits can change each year, so it's wise to re-check your coverage status, especially during open enrollment.

Understanding the Silver Sneakers Program

Silver Sneakers is a health and fitness program designed for adults aged 65 and older. It provides members with access to thousands of participating gyms, fitness centers, and community locations across the country at no additional cost. The program also includes online resources, such as live virtual classes and an extensive library of on-demand workout videos.

To access Silver Sneakers, you must be enrolled in a qualifying Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan that includes the program as a benefit. It is crucial to remember that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover fitness programs like Silver Sneakers on its own.

Major Insurance Companies Offering Silver Sneakers

While eligibility varies by plan and location, several major insurers widely offer Silver Sneakers as a no-cost benefit.

Aetna

Aetna includes a Silver Sneakers basic fitness membership in many of its Medicare Advantage plans. Members can use the Silver Sneakers GO mobile app to find participating locations and access online classes.

Humana

Most Humana Medicare Advantage plans offer the Silver Sneakers benefit at no additional cost. Humana also integrates the program with its Go365 rewards, allowing members to earn rewards for being active.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) / Anthem

Many Blue Cross Blue Shield companies and their affiliated plans, such as Anthem, offer Silver Sneakers to their members. Coverage is often available through both Medicare Advantage and some Medicare Supplement plans, but it's essential to check your specific plan details as availability varies by state.

Wellcare

Wellcare includes the Silver Sneakers program in many of its Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, providing access to participating fitness locations and classes.

Other Providers

Other insurance carriers that may offer Silver Sneakers in certain regions include CareFirst, Clear Spring Health, and Innovation Health. Since local availability is a key factor, always verify with your specific plan provider.

UnitedHealthcare and Renew Active

It is important to note that UnitedHealthcare (UHC), a large Medicare provider, no longer offers Silver Sneakers as a benefit on most of its plans. In 2019, UHC transitioned away from Silver Sneakers, replacing it with its own fitness program called Renew Active. This change affects UHC-affiliated plans, including those endorsed by AARP. If you have a UnitedHealthcare plan, you will likely have access to Renew Active instead.

How to Check Your Eligibility

The easiest way to determine if your insurance plan covers Silver Sneakers is to check online or contact your provider directly.

Check Eligibility on the Silver Sneakers Website

1. Visit the Silver Sneakers official website to use their eligibility checker.
2. You will be prompted to enter your name, date of birth, and health insurance information.
3. The tool will instantly confirm if you are eligible for the program through your current plan.

Call Your Insurance Provider

You can also contact your insurance company's customer service number. A representative can confirm whether your plan includes Silver Sneakers and provide details on how to get started.

A Quick Comparison: Silver Sneakers vs. Renew Active

Feature	Silver Sneakers	Renew Active
Associated Carriers	Aetna, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wellcare, etc.	UnitedHealthcare (including AARP-endorsed plans)
Program Focus	General health and fitness for seniors, including gym access, group classes, and online resources.	Comprehensive wellness program covering body and mind, including gym access, online resources, and brain health exercises.
Network	A large network of participating gyms and fitness centers nationwide.	A separate network of participating fitness centers and gyms.
Online Classes	Offers both live and on-demand online fitness classes.	Includes access to online workout videos and content.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Program for You

For seniors looking to stay active, fitness programs like Silver Sneakers and Renew Active offer valuable, no-cost benefits through eligible Medicare plans. Major carriers such as Aetna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield remain key partners in the Silver Sneakers network. However, if you are a UnitedHealthcare member, your benefits will likely be through Renew Active.

The best way forward is to actively check your eligibility using the online tools provided by the program. Verifying your coverage will ensure you can take full advantage of these resources to support your physical and mental well-being, paving the way for a healthier and more engaged lifestyle. For the most up-to-date details and to check if your plan is covered, visit the Silver Sneakers website directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all insurance companies offer Silver Sneakers?

No, Silver Sneakers is an optional benefit. It is only included with specific Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medigap plans offered by participating private insurance companies. Coverage is not universal.

Is Silver Sneakers free with any Medicare plan?

Silver Sneakers is not covered by Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It is offered at no additional cost only if your specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan includes it as a supplemental benefit.

Can I get Silver Sneakers with a UnitedHealthcare plan?

No, UnitedHealthcare and its affiliated plans, including those endorsed by AARP, replaced Silver Sneakers with their own program called Renew Active. You will likely have access to Renew Active instead.

How do I check if my plan includes Silver Sneakers?

The most accurate way is to check your eligibility on the official Silver Sneakers website. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card to verify your benefits.

What is the difference between Silver Sneakers and Renew Active?

Silver Sneakers and Renew Active are both senior fitness programs, but they are offered by different networks of insurance providers. UnitedHealthcare partners with Renew Active, while other companies like Humana and Aetna offer Silver Sneakers.

Are Silver Sneakers benefits the same for all insurance plans?

While the core program is consistent, the specific gym access and available amenities can vary depending on your location and the fitness facilities participating in your area. Always verify details with your plan and local gyms.

What if my insurance plan doesn't offer Silver Sneakers?

If your plan does not include Silver Sneakers, you can check if it offers an alternative fitness program, such as Renew Active. You can also inquire with local gyms about special senior discounts or membership rates.