Medicare and SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access and fitness classes for older adults. Original Medicare doesn’t cover SilverSneakers, but some Medicare Part C and Medigap plans do.
This article originally appeared on Healthline
Exercise is important for all age groups, including older adults.
Staying physically active can help you maintain mobility and physical function, lift your mood, and make performing your day-to-day activities easier.
A 2019 study of SilverSneakers participants found that individuals with more gym visits had higher self-reported physical and mental health scores.
Keep reading to learn more about SilverSneakers, which Medicare plans cover it, and more.
What is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that’s specifically aimed at adults age 65 and older.
It includes the following benefits:
use of participating gym facilities, including fitness equipment, pools, and walking tracks
fitness classes specifically designed for older adults of all fitness levels, including cardio workouts, strength training, and yoga
access to online resources, including workout videos as well as nutrition and fitness tips
promotion of a supportive community of fellow participants both in person and online
SilverSneakers has thousands of participating gyms nationwide. To find a location near you, use the free search tool on the SilverSneakers website.
Using fitness programs can help improve your overall health and may also lower your healthcare costs.
A 2019 review of the SilverSneakers program found that those participating in SilverSneakers 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)
FLEX Community Program
Along with gym access, SilverSneakers also offers FLEX classes. If your Medicare plan offers SilverSneakers, you will have access to the FLEX community program, which includes fitness classes that are led by instructors and held in local parks and community and recreation centers.
There are more than 80 classes to choose from, including:
dance, such as line dancing or Zumba
fitness boot camp
tai chi
barre
yoga
strength and balance
walking outdoors
stability
chair aerobics
That said, available classes may vary by location.
The FLEX community program also allows you to access digital FLEX classes. These include online resources like videos with:
exercises you can do at home to improve cardio endurance or build muscle
tips to eat healthier
strategies to help you prevent falls
If you have questions about SilverSneakers or the FLEX community program, you can call SilverSneakers Customer Service at 1-888-423-4632, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can also visit silversneakers.com
Does Medicare cover SilverSneakers?
Some Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans cover SilverSneakers. Additionally, some Medigap (Medicare supplement) plans offer it as well.
If your plan covers the SilverSneakers program, you can sign up for it on the SilverSneakers website. After signing up, you’ll be provided with a SilverSneakers membership card with a member ID number.
SilverSneakers members have access to any gym that participates in the program. You can use your membership card to enroll at your gym of choice. You’ll then have access to all SilverSneakers benefits free of charge.
So how can you choose a Medicare plan that fits your needs? Follow the tips below to get started:
Which Medicare plans cover SilverSneakers?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs. Since SilverSneakers falls under this category, original Medicare doesn’t cover it.
However, gym memberships and fitness programs, including SilverSneakers, are often covered as an additional benefit in Medicare Part C plans.
Private insurance companies approved by Medicare offer these plans.
Part C plans include the benefits covered by Parts A and B. They also typically have additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
Some Medigap policies also cover gym memberships and fitness programs. Like Part C plans, private insurance companies offer Medigap plans, which help to cover costs that Original Medicare doesn’t.
How much does Silver Sneakers cost?
SilverSneakers members have access to the included benefits free of charge. You’ll have to pay for anything that isn’t covered in the SilverSneakers program.
If you’re unsure about what’s included at a specific gym, be sure to ask.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the specific amenities and classes available to you can vary by gym. You may have to search for a participating gym that meets your specific fitness needs.
Takeaway
SilverSneakers is a fitness program specifically geared toward older adults. It includes:
access to gym facilities
specialized fitness classes
online resources
FLEX fitness and health classes you can attend in person or online
SilverSneakers benefits are provided to members free of charge. If you want to use gym or fitness services not included in SilverSneakers, you’ll have to pay for them.
Original Medicare doesn’t cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers. However, some Medicare Part C and Medigap plans do. If your Medicare plan offers SilverSneakers, you’ll also have access to the FLEX community program.
If you’re interested in SilverSneakers, check to see if it’s included in your plan or any plan you’re considering.
View the original article on Healthline
