What is Silver Sneakers?
Silver Sneakers is a program founded in the 1990s that gives members access to gyms and fitness classes, as well as online classes. Silver Sneakers is a benefit provided by many Medicare Advantage and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans.
You can use the Silver Sneakers plan finder tool to see which Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans in your state provide Silver Sneakers memberships to their enrollees.
Who can enroll in Silver Sneakers?
Although the program is designed for people 65 and older, membership is available to Medicare Advantage or Medigap enrollees of all ages if their insurer provides it. Having a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan that includes Silver Sneakers is the only way to participate in the program.
What are Silver Sneakers benefits?
Members have access to over 22,000 gyms, community centers, and fitness facilities across the U.S. Silver Sneakers also provides access to exercise classes taught at recreation centers, parks and other locations, as well as an app and numerous online fitness classes.
Do all Medicare plans offer Silver Sneakers?
No, not all Medicare plans include Silver Sneakers. You cannot purchase a Silver Sneakers membership on your own, or add it to a plan that doesn’t include it. Your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan either comes with Silver Sneakers or it does not.
Some Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans provide reimbursement for gym memberships or fitness programs other than the Silver Sneakers program, so you can check with your plan to see if there is any fitness benefit included. Original Medicare never includes a Silver Sneakers membership or any other gym membership coverage.
While gym access or exercise classes are a nice benefit to have, they shouldn’t be the only thing you consider when choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage or when choosing a specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan. Learn more about choosing the right Medicare coverage to fit your needs.
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