Does Medicare Have Silver Sneakers

How Can I Find A Blue Cross Blue Shield Plan With Silversneakers

The easiest way to find a Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan in your area that includes a SilverSneakers membership is to connect with a licensed insurance agent.

Its possible that your local Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliate may not offer SilverSneakers as part of its Medicare plans. Should that be the case, an insurance agent who is contracted with multiple different carriers may be able to find some Medicare Advantage plans offered by other carriers that include SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit or a similar fitness program for seniors.

Which Parts Of Medicare Cover Silversneakers

Original Medicare does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs. Since SilverSneakers falls under this category, original Medicare doesnt 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 will also cover gym memberships and fitness programs. Like Part C plans, private insurance companies offer Medigap plans. Medigap plans help to cover costs that original Medicare doesnt.

SilverSneakers members have access to the included benefits free of charge. Youll have to pay for anything that isnt covered in the SilverSneakers program.

If youre unsure about whats included at a specific gym, be sure to ask.

Additionally, its 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.

SilverSneakers is a fitness program specifically geared toward older adults. It includes:

• access to gym facilities

How Can I Enroll In Or Switch To Silver Sneakers

You are able to add a Medicare advantage or supplemental insurance plan with Silver Sneakers benefits to your insurance, when you first become eligible, and enroll in original Medicare, typically when you turn 65 . You will have an initial enrollment period for Medicare that lasts from 6 months prior to 6 months past your 65th birthday. If you miss this time period, you may be able to join a supplemental policy at a later time, but you wont have a guaranteed right to be accepted anymore. If you plan on adding a Medicare advantage plan at a later time, you may do so each year in fall during the Open Enrollment period, which is each year in fall. If you missed the open enrollment, you have to wait, and enroll between October 15 and December 7 or switch to a Medicare advantage plan with SilverSneakers benefits. However, if a 5 Star Rated Medicare advantage plan with SilverSneakers is available to you, you may join that plan at any time during the year. Check with Medicare.gov for available 5 Star Rated Medicare advantage plans in your area.

We hope that you will find your SilverSneakers plan and can join a fun fitness class! A regular workout will not only help you improve your agility and flexibility, by improving your fitness and overall health you may even be able to reduce the amount of drugs you are required to take and cut down your prescription drug expenses!

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Which Insurance Plans Cover Silversneakers

Below you will find some of the many insurance companies that offer SilverSneakers as a covered benefit.

These private insurance companies offer either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement plan that includes SilverSneakers. Keep in mind insurance plans vary based on where you live, and not every company will offer plans that include SilverSneakers. Each plan varies, so check to see if the plan you choose to enroll in offers the benefit.

To find out which plans available in your state include SilverSneakers, you can ask your insurance representative or visit the SilverSneakers website. You may also call SilverSneakers directly at 866-584-7389 or email at .

What If My Plan Doesnt Include Silversneakers

Its in everyones best interests for insurance plans to offer fitness benefits. According to the National Institutes of Health, exercise protects against heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and can even help prevent some forms of cancer. It also improves mental health and contributes to a better quality of life. For these reasons, its not surprising that a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study showed almost one-half of all U.S. workplaces include fitness benefits in their health plans.

SilverSneakers is a subsidiary of Tivity Health, the company behind Nutrisystem, Prime Fitness, and Wisely Well brands. Although its the largest company offering Medicare fitness programs, it competes against programs such as Active & Fit Direct and Silver & Fit.

Insurers that want to offer fitness benefits choose the program that makes the most sense for their members. Some insurance companies develop their own fitness networks. For instance, UnitedHealthcare recently scaled back its participation in SilverSneakers in favor of Renew Active, a new fitness program created exclusively for UHC Medicare Advantage members.

If your Medicare plan doesnt offer SilverSneakers, it may offer one of the other fitness programs. You may even get fitness benefits with your life insurance policy: For example, John Hancocks Vitality Program rewards policyholders who participate in an active lifestyle.

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United Healthcares New Program Renew Active

Despite the partnership between SilverSneakers and United Healthcare ending, United Healthcare is promoting fitness for seniors with a new program.

Renew Active is a new program that is covered by United Healthcare to promote the same fitness goals seniors have been achieving through SilverSneakers.

Along with typical workout routines, Renew Active provides brain fitness activities. This program, known as AARP Staying Sharp, comes at no additional cost to subscribers who already receive Renew Active as a benefit. Staying Sharp allows users to take a quiz that builds a personalized routine. Articles on mental fitness and workouts are all provided virtually.

Renew Active provides many of the same benefits as SilverSneakers. Gyms are available to members at no additional cost with instruction-based classes and open gym equipment. Renew Active also offers a FitBit sponsored community in which members can track their progress with other members, supporting the social aspect of this program.

Regardless of your fitness level, you can find programs that fit your needs. Here are some examples of programs available:

• Strength programs including dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, calisthenics
• Aquatic programs such as water yoga, aqua aerobics, and swimming
• Cardio such as cycling, kickboxing and aerobics.
• Speciality programs such as personal training, Zumba, and self-defense
• Mind/Body activities like yoga, pilates, and tai chi

Silver And Fit Vs Silversneakers

Silver and Fit and SilverSneakers are similar in the fact that theyre both fitness programs through Medicare, but theyre not the same plan. These are different companies that provide comparable benefits.

Both companies offer fitness opportunities and group fitness classes. The programs are attainable with Supplement and Advantage plans.

Check location listings in your area to make sure that a program IS near you. Those without a local gym can choose Silver and Fit, which provides a home fitness kit.

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What Is The Silversneakers Program

Are you looking for a senior fitness program? If you have a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, your health insurance may include a free fitness membership for adults 65+ called SilverSneakers. A SilverSneakers membership includes access to roughly 14,000 recreation centers, churches, senior communities, and other neighborhood locations across the nation. Youll get access to fitness equipment, social events, a variety of exercise classes, including boot camp, circuit training, strength and balance, tai chi, yoga, water aerobics, and Zumba, plus access to amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts, and walking tracks if available at certain locations. Sounds pretty good, right? Heres what else you may want to know about the program.

How Does The Silver And Fit Program Work

Online Healthy Aging resources: Silver and Fit gives you access to an online catalog of Healthy Aging materials containing health and well-being resources. Once enrolled, you can opt to receive the Healthy Aging materials via mail. Topics include meditation, staying active, and community involvement.

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Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Silver Sneakers

As a Blue Cross Blue Shield member, your health plan may already include SilverSneakers program membership as an added benefit. That means free gym access to multiple SilverSneakers fitness locations and exercise classes led by certified instructors who know how to help seniors stay fit. All at no extra cost to you.

Is Silver& fit The Same As Silversneakers

SilverSneakers is perhaps the most widely used fitness program included in many Medicare insurance plans, but its not the only one.

Silver& Fit is a program like SilverSneakers that is included in Medicare plans by some carriers. While the programs are sure to have their subtle differences, they are very similar in what they offer.

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How They Are Different: Renew Active Vs Silver Sneakers

• The first difference we see at this time is Silver Sneakers seems to be in more facilities.
• SilverSneakers boasts over 16,000 locations.
• At the start of 2019, Renew Active mentioned over 7,000. However, it seems like their program has grown since that mention.
• Check the location searches for both programs to make sure your gym preference is covered.

• The second difference is that Renew Active has an online brain training application included, and Silver Sneakers does not .
• The BrainHQ app seems to retail at $8-$14 a month if you wanted to buy it separately, so that does suggest added value.
• We have not tried this app, and could not find a lot of research or reviews on the platform at the moment. Please leave a comment if you find something useful!

• In our Renew Active vs Silver Sneakers comparison, the third difference we see is that Silver Sneakers has an good list of online classes.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Silversneakers

• Some Blue Cross Blue Shield cover SilverSneakers membership as an extra benefit. Learn more about the SilverSneakers fitness program and the other benefits that may be available with a Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan.

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is part of the Anthem family of brands that offer insurance plans under several different company names throughout the U.S. Many Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans may offer a SilverSneakers membership as an added benefit.

Though plan availability and benefits may vary, you can compare Medicare plans available where you live and find out which plans cover SilverSneakers as well as other benefits you want, such as dental, hearing, vision, prescription drugs and more.

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What Medicare Advantage Plans Cover Silver Sneakers

Even though its common knowledge that physical activity is important for good health, for many people, staying active in their senior years, especially after retirement, is not always an easy feat. If you find yourself in the same situation, joining a fitness organization like Silver Sneakers may be just what you need to get moving.

Even though Original Medicare coverage does not include fitness programs like Silver Sneakers for Medicare beneficiaries, many Medicare Advantage plans do cover this wellness program. If being active is a priority for you, and Silver Sneakers sounds like a great option, make sure to find a Medicare Advantage plan that includes free coverage.

What is Silver Sneakers?

Silver Sneakers is the name of an organization that provides gym and fitness class memberships to people who are 65 and older and are eligible for Medicare coverage. Silver Sneakers programs are available in over 13,000 locations in the United States. They offer free fitness programs in gyms, pools, and even outdoors.

As a member of Silver Sneakers, you have access to a gyms cardio equipment, pool, weights, and fitness classes lead by certified instructors. If you prefer being outside, there are programs that arrange member meetings at parks or recreation centers. Some of the outdoor activities include tai chi, yoga, or walking.

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Start Using Your Free Fitness Center Membership Today

Find a participating fitness center near you on the SilverSneakerswebsite. There are thousands of SilverSneakers locations nationwide, so you can exercise while you’re traveling, too. You can visit as many locations as you wish!

SilverSneakers also encourages members to get active outside at local parks and other community locations with SilverSneakers FLEX®. Activities include tai chi, yoga, line dancing, boot camp, walking groups and many more.

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Silversneakers How Does It Work

SilverSneakers is a program encouraging older adults to participate in physical activities that will help them to maintain greater control of their health. SilverSneakers sponsors activities and social events designed to keep those 65 and older healthy while encouraging social interaction. As well as keeping you physically healthy, SilverSneakers can contribute to your overall well-being by connecting you to others in fitness classes and helping you stay social. According to SilverSneakers.com, 88 percent of SilverSneakers members say that SilverSneakers has improved the quality of their life.

SilverSneakers is available around the country, and membership provides access to any participating gym locationincluding all amenities included with basic level access. Each SilverSneakers location is outfitted with an advisor who will introduce you to the program and help get you started. SilverSneakers also includes an invitation to sponsored health education seminars and other fitness-related events.

NEW TO MEDICARE?

How To Qualify For Silversneakers

Unfortunately, Original Medicare plans dont cover a SilverSneakers membership. SilverSneakers is considered a gym membership or fitness program, and the Medicare website explicitly says it wont cover those.

However, there is the chance that a Medicare Advantage plan will cover it. A supplemental plan could also cover the SneakerSilvers program. The SilverSneakers website says the program is covered by one in four Medicare programs, though the organization doesnt specify if this is 25 percent of Medicare Advantage plans or 25 percent of all Medicare plans.

You can check if your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan covers SilverSneakers on the programs website. You can visit that same link if youre in the market for a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan and want to find one that include SilverSneakers in its coverage.

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Does United Healthcare Cover Silver Sneakers In 2020

1, UnitedHealthcare no longer offers SilverSneakers for the more than 2 million customers using Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplemental insurance in certain states, including North Carolina. But instead, the company said it is offering its own fitness program that is more flexible and innovative.

Renew Active Vs Silver Sneakers

Contents

Does it sometimes seem like Medicare and Insurance companies are trying to make things as complicated as they possibly can? Just when you think you have Medicare Advantage down, something else comes up! For example: Renew Active vs Silver Sneakers.

Not so very long ago, there was one main senior fitness program when you joined a Medicare Advantage Plan: SilverSneakers®. Then, in January 2019, one carrier dropped SilverSneakers and replaced it with Renew Active. Many people were concerned when this first happened. However, it now seems like Renew Active is a reasonable replacement.

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How Do I Know If I’m Eligible

Eligibility is specific to your insurance plan. To verify that your individual coverage qualifies, please call the phone number on the back of your health insurance card to receive your Fitness ID or Confirmation Code for the program. Once the eligibility has been verified, obtain your Fitness ID or Confirmation Code as this will be required to enroll in membership.

What Medicare Supplement Companies Offer The Active And Fit Direct Program

The American Specialty Health Incorporateds new fitness program has millions of members. The Active and Fit Direct Program has been the market a couple of years, and its become the countrys most notable commercial fitness program.

Further, many companies offer programs like Active & Fit. Aetna members may have access to these programs, although supplement insurance may vary.

Learn if your Supplement company offers the Active & Fit Direct Program by contacting your agent.

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Who Is Eligible For Silversneakers

If youre a beneficiary under 65, you may qualify for an Advantage plan with SilverSneakers. There is NO age requirement!

The program requires the following:

• Enrollment in a plan that includes a membership
• If the gym membership costs an extra fee, you must pay the premium.

But, a plan must be available in your area. Some areas have a few options. While the program is helpful, its not suitable for everyone.

For example, those in Charleston, South Carolina might have more options than those in more rural areas.

If the company you want doesnt offer the program, call one us at the number above to find a solution.

Why Do Medicare Plans Offer A Silversneakers Benefit

Many insurance companies have started offering unique benefits and incentives to those who are working to improve their health through fitness and diet.

For example, the Attain by Aetna program is built around customizing your activity goals, such as how many steps you take or how many laps you swim. The weekly challenges are issued through the Apple Watch, and the points you earn by completing the challenges can be used to actually pay for said Apple Watch.

You also have life insurance companies like John Hancock, who have put together a âVitality Program,â which gives policyholders the chance to reduce premiums by up to 15% for living a healthy life. You can earn rewards like Amazon discounts, an Apple Watch, a Fitbit device, and even a Vitality Healthy Food benefit with up to $600 in annual savings on healthy food purchases.

Many insurance companies recognize the value of encouraging their policyholders to stay on top of their health. The SilverSneakers® program is just one more way for insurance companies to help their members stay healthy for longer.

Healthier members mean lower medical bills, which ultimately saves the insurance company money in the long run. Thatâs the idea, anyway.

Their program has also had a âsignificant impactâ on social isolation and loneliness.

Best of all, SilverSneakers® reports that group exercise class attendees have $2,144 lower average healthcare costs than matched non-enrollees after only a single year in the program .

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