Tivity Health: The Parent Company of SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is run by its parent company, Tivity Health, Inc., a Franklin, Tennessee-based organization specializing in health and fitness solutions. Tivity Health develops and manages a suite of wellness programs aimed at different markets, including seniors and employer groups. The company operates by partnering with health plans nationwide to offer these benefits to their members, demonstrating a business model centered on improving population health for older adults.
The Business Model and Insurance Partnerships
Tivity Health does not directly sell SilverSneakers memberships to the public. Instead, it collaborates with a network of private insurance carriers to offer SilverSneakers as a supplemental, no-cost benefit within specific Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. This arrangement is why Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover the program, and eligibility depends on your specific insurance provider. This partnership-based model allows Tivity Health to reach a wide demographic of seniors by embedding the fitness benefit into their existing health coverage.
How Tivity Health Operates SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers provides access to a large network of fitness centers, online classes, and community-based sessions. Tivity Health's operation of the program involves several key components:
- Network Management: Establishing and managing partnerships with thousands of gyms, community centers, and other fitness locations across the country. This ensures members have wide access to facilities and amenities.
- Program Development: Creating proprietary exercise classes specifically designed for older adults, including SilverSneakers Classic, Circuit, and Yoga. These classes are led by trained and certified instructors.
- Digital Platforms: Offering online resources, such as the SilverSneakers LIVE virtual classes, on-demand video libraries, and the SilverSneakers GO mobile app. This provides flexible fitness options for members who prefer to work out at home.
- Eligibility Tools: Providing an online tool for prospective members to check their eligibility based on their Medicare plan, which is crucial for managing the program on a large scale.
Comparing SilverSneakers to Other Fitness Programs for Seniors
To understand the competitive landscape and what makes SilverSneakers unique, it's helpful to compare it to other programs on the market.
| Feature | SilverSneakers (Tivity Health) | Renew Active (AARP/UnitedHealthcare) | Silver&Fit (American Specialty Health) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent Company | Tivity Health, Inc. | UnitedHealthcare (in partnership with AARP) | American Specialty Health |
| Insurance Partner | Various Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans | AARP Medicare plans from UnitedHealthcare | Many Medicare Advantage plans |
| Availability | Offered as a benefit by many insurance providers, but not all | Replaced SilverSneakers for AARP/UnitedHealthcare members in certain states | Available through numerous Medicare plans |
| Program Focus | Fitness access, specialized senior classes, social engagement | Fitness program, brain health resources, and social activities | Fitness access, digital workouts, and wellness coaching |
The Role of Tivity Health in Senior Wellness
By operating SilverSneakers, Tivity Health plays a significant role in promoting active aging for millions of Americans. The company's commitment goes beyond simply providing gym access; it also involves gathering data and insights to continually refine and expand its offerings for the 65+ population. In addition to SilverSneakers, Tivity Health manages other wellness brands like Prime® Fitness and WholeHealth Living®. This broad portfolio highlights their expertise in the health and wellness sector and their dedication to providing varied solutions that support different aspects of a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
In summary, Tivity Health, Inc. runs SilverSneakers, delivering the program as a supplemental benefit through a wide array of Medicare Advantage and Medigap insurance plans. The program's operational success relies on its extensive network of gym partnerships, robust digital platforms, and specialized class offerings for seniors. This strategic model allows Tivity Health to improve the quality of life for millions of older adults by making fitness and social engagement a readily accessible part of their health coverage. For eligibility details, individuals should always check their specific insurance plan's benefits. For more information, visit the official SilverSneakers website at https://www.silversneakers.com.
