If you are looking for a way to get fit, the Silver Sneakers program may be just what you need! This program offers seniors (ages 65 and older) access to gyms and fitness classes at no cost. It can be a great way to stay healthy and active. In this blog post, we will tell you how to sign up for the Silver Sneakers program. Keep reading for more information!
Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, recommends the American Heart Association. Ideally, this activity should be spread throughout the week. This recommendation is something to pay attention to, knowing that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Americans from 2016 to 2017. A Harvard study calls exercise an “insurance policy that may offer both short and long term protection for your heart.”
Exercise may not be easy if you feel stuck at home with no exercise equipment. That’s where SilverSneakers comes in.
The Silver Sneakers Program
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 location–including all amenities included with basic level access. Each SilverSneakers location will help you with an advisor. They will show you around and how to get started. SilverSneakers also includes an invitation to sponsored health education seminars and other fitness-related events.
Does Medicare Help With Silver Sneakers?
For many people, the answer to this question is yes! Silver Sneakers are often included with some plans at no additional cost. Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). These plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check with your plan provider to see if Silver Sneakers is included. Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
If you don’t have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can still sign up for Silver Sneakers–you will just need to pay a monthly fee. The cost of membership varies depending on your location, but it is typically around $50 per month. You can sign up for Silver Sneakers by visiting their website or calling the customer service number at (888) 419-2088.
Things That Are Not Apart of The Program
Before you sign up, it’s important to know what Silver Sneakers does not cover. First of all, Silver Sneakers does not pay for any gym membership fees–you will still need to pay these yourself. Additionally, Silver Sneakers does not cover the cost of personal training sessions or other fitness classes that are not part of the Silver Sneakers program. Finally, Silver Sneakers does not cover the cost of any fitness equipment or gear that you may need for your workouts.
Do Unions or Employer Retirement Plans Help With Silver Sneakers?
Yes, some unions and employer retirement plans will help cover the cost of Silver Sneakers. For example, if you are a member of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), you may be eligible for a discount on your Silver Sneakers membership. Check with your union or employer retirement plan provider to see if they offer any discounts on Silver Sneakers memberships.
How Do I Get the Silver Sneakers Program?
Now that you know a little more about what Silver Sneakers is and how it can help you, you may be wondering how to sign up. The first step is to check and see if your Medicare Advantage plan includes Silver Sneakers at no extra cost. If you don’t have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can still sign up for Silver Sneakers by visiting their website or calling the customer service number at (888) 419-2088.
We hope this article has helped clear up any confusion about how to sign up. If you don’t have a plan that covers Silver Sneakers, please give us a call so we help choose a plan that has.
