Silver Sneakers Free Fitness Benefits For Medicare Beneficiaries

Silver Sneakers is a comprehensive wellness program available to many Medicare beneficiaries that provides access to fitness facilities, classes, and resources at no additional cost. This program helps promote healthy aging through physical activity while also supporting mental and emotional wellbeing through socialization opportunities. For older adults with qualifying Medicare coverage, Silver Sneakers represents a valuable free benefit that can improve health outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs.

What is Silver Sneakers

Silver Sneakers is a fitness program specifically designed for older adults that provides access to gyms, community exercise classes, and workout videos. The program helps promote healthy aging through physical activity, but socialization can also foster good mental and emotional health. To be eligible for Silver Sneakers, a person must have a Medicare plan that includes the program among its benefits.

It's important to note that Original Medicare Parts A and B do not cover Silver Sneakers. Beneficiaries will need a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy that includes the program. The program is offered by various insurance carriers, and availability depends on the specific plan an individual has.

Silver Sneakers Free Benefits

When a Medicare plan includes Silver Sneakers, beneficiaries receive access to a range of fitness benefits at no extra cost. These benefits include:

Gym Access

Silver Sneakers members have access to any gym that participates in the program. This includes both local and national gym chains. Members can use their Silver Sneakers membership card to enroll at their gym of choice and gain access to all standard gym facilities and equipment.

In-Person Fitness Classes

Participating locations offer various group exercise classes such as yoga, tai chi, water aerobics, and balance training. Some locations may also provide social activities, walking clubs, and health education programs. Amenities vary by location but may include pools, indoor tracks, tennis courts, or wellness coaching at no additional cost to members.

Live and On-Demand Virtual Workouts

Silver Sneakers provides access to live and on-demand virtual workouts, allowing members to exercise from the comfort of their homes. These digital resources can be particularly beneficial for those who may have difficulty traveling to a gym or prefer the convenience of home-based exercise options.

FLEX Community Program

Along with gym access, Silver Sneakers offers the FLEX Community Program, which provides fitness classes led by instructors and held in local parks and community and recreation centers. There are more than 80 classes to choose from, including:

• Dance classes (line dancing, Zumba)
• Fitness boot camp
• Tai chi
• Barre
• Yoga
• Strength and balance training
• Walking outdoors
• Stability exercises
• Chair aerobics

Available classes may vary by location, making it important for members to check what's offered in their area.

Digital FLEX Classes

The FLEX Community Program also includes online resources with videos featuring exercises to improve cardio endurance or build muscle, tips to eat healthier, and strategies to help prevent falls. These digital resources provide additional flexibility for members who may prefer or need home-based exercise options.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for Silver Sneakers depends on an individual's Medicare coverage. Most Medicare Advantage plans include Silver Sneakers as a free benefit. Some Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies also provide access, although Original Medicare Parts A and B do not. Special Needs Plans (SNPs) may also offer Silver Sneakers.

To confirm eligibility, individuals should check their plan documents or call their insurer directly. Not all supplement plans are eligible for Silver Sneakers, so verification is essential.

Popular Plans Offering Silver Sneakers

Based on enrollment data, several popular plans offer Silver Sneakers, including:

PPO Plans

• Allina Health Aetna Medicare
• Allina Health Aetna Medicare Signature (H3219-001-0)
• Anthem Blue Cross Partnership Plan
• Anthem Prime (H4161-002-0)
• Aetna Better Health of Virginia
• Aetna Medicare FIDE (H1610-001-0)
• Florida Blue
• BlueMedicare Value (H5434-031-0)
• BlueMedicare Value (H5434-026-0)
• BlueMedicare Value (H5434-025-0)
• Freedom Health, Inc.
• Freedom VIP Savings (H5427-072-0)

HMO Plans

• Wellcare By Allwell
• Wellcare Dual Liberty (H5294-010-0)
• Wellcare Simple (H9630-002-0)
• Wellcare Dual Liberty Sync (H5590-008-0)

How to Sign Up and Use Silver Sneakers

If a Medicare plan covers the Silver Sneakers program, individuals can sign up for it on the SilverSneakers website. After signing up, they will receive a Silver Sneakers membership card with a member ID number. This card can then be used to enroll at any participating gym of choice, providing access to all Silver Sneakers benefits free of charge.

The SilverSneakers website offers a free search tool to help members find participating locations near them. For those with questions about Silver Sneakers or the FLEX community program, customer service can be reached at 1-888-423-4632, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Silver Sneakers for Retirement Communities

Silver Sneakers also offers special programs for member-only retirement communities through its FLEX Community Program. This program provides Silver Sneakers members access to fitness classes and activities at locations like parks, community centers, and online, often held within or near retirement communities.

The FLEX Community Program expands fitness options beyond traditional gym settings, offering a wide variety of classes such as yoga, tai chi, Zumba, and more. Many senior living communities participate in the FLEX program, offering Silver Sneakers members access to classes within the community or nearby. This program is designed to be more accessible and engaging for older adults, providing fitness options at locations that may be more convenient and familiar.

The program also includes online classes, allowing members to participate in workouts from the comfort of their own homes. It's important to note that not every retirement community will have Silver Sneakers classes or be part of the FLEX program, so members should verify with their specific community or with Silver Sneakers directly.

Health Benefits of Silver Sneakers

Research has demonstrated potential health benefits associated with participation in the Silver Sneakers program. A 2019 review found that those participating in Silver Sneakers for at least 2 years had:

• Lower healthcare costs
• Fewer inpatient hospital admissions
• Higher savings (for those who averaged 2 or more health club visits per week)

Fitness programs can help improve overall health and may also lower healthcare costs. The regular physical activity and social interaction provided by Silver Sneakers contribute to these positive outcomes, making it a valuable benefit for Medicare beneficiaries.

Alternative Programs

Not every insurer participates in Silver Sneakers. Other programs such as Renew Active, Silver&Fit, or Golden Sneakers may be offered by certain insurers as alternatives. These programs also provide access to fitness centers, classes, and online resources for older adults.

If a Medicare plan doesn't include any of these programs, individuals can check directly with local gyms and community centers, as many offer senior discounts or special memberships that might provide similar benefits.

Tips for Choosing the Best Medicare Plan

When selecting a Medicare plan, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets individual needs:

Health Needs

Since everyone has different health needs, it's important to consider what kind of health or medical services will be needed in the coming year. Plans that offer Silver Sneakers or similar fitness programs may be particularly beneficial for those who value access to exercise resources.

Coverage Options

Compare the coverage provided in different Medicare plans with personal health needs. Focus on plans that will meet these needs in the upcoming year. For those interested in fitness benefits, verify whether Silver Sneakers or similar programs are included.

Cost Considerations

Costs can vary by the Medicare plan selected. When looking at plans, consider premiums, deductibles, and how much would need to be paid out of pocket. Remember that some plans with additional benefits like Silver Sneakers may have different cost structures.

Part C and Part D Plans

If looking at Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Part D (prescription drug) plans, remember that what's covered varies by each individual plan. Use the official Medicare site to carefully compare different plans before deciding on one.

Network Considerations

Some plans require that healthcare providers be used within their network. When selecting a plan, check if preferred doctors, hospitals, and fitness facilities are included in the network.

Conclusion

Silver Sneakers represents a valuable free benefit for many Medicare beneficiaries, offering access to fitness facilities, classes, and resources that promote healthy aging and potentially reduce healthcare costs. The program is available through most Medicare Advantage plans and some Medigap policies, providing gym access, in-person fitness classes, virtual workouts, and the FLEX community program with classes in various settings.

For older adults looking to maintain or improve their physical and mental wellbeing, Silver Sneakers offers a comprehensive fitness solution at no additional cost. By understanding eligibility requirements, signing up properly, and utilizing the full range of available benefits, Medicare beneficiaries can maximize this valuable program to support their health and wellbeing.

When selecting a Medicare plan, it's important to consider whether Silver Sneakers or similar fitness programs are included, as these benefits can significantly enhance quality of life and potentially lead to better health outcomes and cost savings over time.

Sources

1. Free Programs and Perks for Medicare Users
2. Silver Sneakers
3. What is the SilverSneakers Program?
4. Silver Sneakers
5. Silver Sneakers Flex for Member Only Retirement Communities