What Is the SilverSneakers Program?
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SilverSneakers is a program that gives Medicare-eligible adults access to gyms, community centers, online fitness classes, healthy living discounts, a fitness app and more. SilverSneakers is included in many Medicare Advantage plans and some Medicare Supplement plans.
What is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is designed to help older Americans reach exercise and activity goals by providing access to fitness facilities, online fitness classes and online workouts.
A SilverSneakers membership typically includes:
A basic membership to participating gyms and other locations: Access to cardio and strength equipment and amenities like pools and walking tracks.
Exercise classes: Includes cardio and strength classes, water aerobics and yoga. And if the gym isn’t your preference, SilverSneakers FLEX classes are taught at recreation centers and local parks, among other locations.
On-demand videos: Programs to help improve flexibility and mobility, balance, cardio or strength. There are videos on yoga, tai chi, fall prevention and nutrition information.
Although the membership is geared toward those 65 or older, there's no age requirement for participation if your Medicare plan offers this option. You simply must be eligible for Medicare.
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Does Medicare cover SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is a benefit available with many Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans; Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) don't cover the program.
Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is a bundled alternative to Original Medicare that includes Part A and Part B, usually prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D), and often additional benefits such as cost savings on dental or vision care. Many Medicare Advantage plans include the SilverSneakers program as a plan benefit.
Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, is additional coverage that can be purchased with Original Medicare to cover the out-of-pocket costs that come with Parts A and B. Some plans provide access to SilverSneakers.
To find out what health plans in your area offer SilverSneakers as a benefit, use the program’s online tool to locate participating health plans.
Is there a SilverSneakers near you?
SilverSneakers gives individuals access to over 15,000 fitness locations nationwide, as well as live fitness classes designed for various levels and a library of online video workouts. To find a gym or class near you, you can use the online location tool or download the SilverSneakers GO app for iOS or Android.
Additionally, you can visit any SilverSneakers member location in the network. (You’re not limited to those in your area or only one location.)
Even if you aren’t a SilverSneakers member, classes are also available on its Facebook page for everyone. You can do them live or watch them later at your convenience. Classes focus on things like core strength, cardio and endurance, and better balance.
How much does SilverSneakers cost?
There's no cost for SilverSneakers — it’s included with some Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, plans. If you’re not sure if you’re covered, check with your plan provider.
Is SilverSneakers available outside of Medicare Advantage?
The SilverSneakers program is available with only some Medicare Advantage plans and a few Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, plans. You must be eligible for Medicare and enrolled in a participating plan.
Medicare Advantage companies
Get more information below about some of the major Medicare Advantage companies. These insurance companies offer plans in most states. The plans you can choose from will depend on your ZIP code and county.
What comes with a SilverSneakers membership?
If your SilverSneakers benefit includes a gym membership, you’ll generally have access to cardio equipment, strength equipment and amenities such as walking tracks and pools.
SilverSneakers membership also includes live online fitness classes and access to the program’s video library of workouts. The SilverSneakers GO app can also help you find SilverSneakers locations and classes nearby.
Although members sometimes mistakenly think a membership comes with a pair of silver sneakers, this program doesn’t give out footwear. But there is an affiliated online store that sells water bottles, exercise bands, dumbbells and T-shirts.
What Medicare covers
Medicare covers a lot of things — but not everything. Find out where Medicare stands in the following areas:
