From Founding to Corporate Acquisition: The SilverSneakers Journey
SilverSneakers was founded in 1992 by Mary Swanson, inspired by her father's recovery from a heart attack, to provide tailored fitness options for seniors. The program was acquired by Healthways, later rebranded as Tivity Health in 2017, which expanded its reach.
Tivity Health: The Direct Owner of SilverSneakers
Tivity Health, Inc. currently owns SilverSneakers. Based in Tennessee, the company offers health and wellness solutions, including brands like Prime Fitness and WholeHealth Living, catering to various markets, including Medicare-eligible seniors. Tivity Health has added virtual classes and expanded its gym network, focusing on member needs.
Stone Point Capital: The Current Ultimate Owner
In June 2022, Tivity Health was acquired by Stone Point Capital, a private equity firm. This acquisition transitioned Tivity Health from a publicly traded company to a private one, with Stone Point Capital now overseeing its strategic direction. Stone Point Capital, focusing on financial services and related sectors, invested in the healthy aging market through this acquisition.
Comparing Ownership Eras: Healthways vs. Tivity Health vs. Stone Point
| Feature | Healthways Era (until 2017) | Tivity Health Era (2017-2022) | Stone Point Capital Era (2022-Present) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Status | Publicly traded company. | Publicly traded company (following rebrand). | Private equity firm ownership. |
| Acquisition | Acquired SilverSneakers in 2006. | Rebranded from Healthways; acquired Nutrisystem (later divested) and Burnalong. | Acquired Tivity Health for $2 billion. |
| Primary Focus | Broader well-being solutions. | Health, fitness, nutrition, and social engagement. | Investment in healthy aging market; growth acceleration. |
| Offerings | Primarily physical access to facilities. | Expanded with digital and virtual options. | Continued expansion of digital and personalized services. |
| Strategic Aim | Integrated SilverSneakers into a larger wellness portfolio. | Diversified offerings and adapted to changing consumer needs. | Focused on growth and innovation within the healthy aging sector. |
What Ownership Means for SilverSneakers Members
Ownership changes have largely not impacted the core SilverSneakers member experience, which remains focused on senior fitness and social engagement. Under Tivity Health and Stone Point, the program has expanded its offerings, including:
- Extensive Network: Access to a wide network of fitness locations.
- Virtual Classes: Introduction of SilverSneakers LIVE and on-demand options.
- Wellness Programs: Inclusion of additional wellness and enrichment opportunities.
The Corporate Vision for Healthy Aging
The ownership structure reflects a growing focus on the senior health market. The goal is to provide comprehensive programs addressing physical, social, and mental well-being to improve health outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs. The program continues to evolve to meet member needs and market demands, with research highlighting its effectiveness in promoting health.
For more information on the official program details and eligibility, you can visit the SilverSneakers website.
Conclusion
SilverSneakers, founded by Mary Swanson, is currently owned by Tivity Health, which is ultimately owned by the private equity firm Stone Point Capital. This history reflects the program's growth and evolution, with a consistent focus on providing fitness and wellness solutions for older adults through expanding offerings and innovation.
