The Silver Sneakers program is a comprehensive fitness and activity option for Medicare recipients.
Silver Sneakers Program
It’s often included with Medicare supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans. But it’s not a government program. Instead, Silver Sneakers is a private organization.
The Silver Sneakers program benefits get you free or discounted access to thousands of gyms, fitness centers, and classes across the country, and access to many popular fitness activities designed specifically for senior citizens.
In addition to the gym and fitness club access benefits, Silver Sneakers also organizes a wide range of other activities as well, including activities in parks, community centers, and places of worship. Common Silver Sneakers group activities include yoga classes, hiking, walking, and swimming clubs.
Silver Sneakers also sponsors wellness events, health seminars, and a variety of community engagement activities.
Specifics vary by location, so check your plan to learn what Silver Sneakers events are available in your area.
Benefits of the Silver Sneakers Program
Research shows that Silver Sneakers reduces isolation and loneliness among seniors. It’s also been proven that seniors who regularly visit a health club reported better physical and mental health.
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Compare the Silver Sneakers Program Costs
Silver Sneakers is a great benefit – but it’s not the only option for staying active in your golden years.
When considering Silver Sneakers, you’ll want to compare the added cost of a plan that includes this program against the expense of purchasing your own fitness club membership or joining a local YMCA.
For example, many of our more health-minded clients find that they can save money and have more flexibility by joining Medi-Share 65+ – a lower-cost, non-insurance health sharing alternative to Medigap plans – and using the savings to join their own health club or activity group.
Medi-Share 65+ costs just $99 per month for members ages 65-74, and just $150 for members 75 and older. Your monthly price is locked in until you turn 75 so you can receive up to a ten-year price guarantee by signing up now.
According to GoodRx, the value of a Silver Sneakers membership is generally around $38 per month.
So if you can save that much by opting for Medi-Share 65+ compared to a Medigap plan in your area, it may make sense to do that, and join a fitness club on your own.
Do You Want to Choose Your Own Doctor?
Medi-Share 65+ also provides more freedom to choose your own doctor compared to Medicare Advantage plans, which restrict you to an HMO or PPO’s narrow network of approved providers.
Specific cost comparisons can vary widely based on location, plan options, and individual needs, making it challenging to provide a one-size-fits-all analysis.
The Medi-Share 65+ plan doesn’t include the Silver Sneakers benefit directly. But it typically saves money compared to Medigap Plans G and N, and lets you use your benefits with any doctor.
Learn More: Medi-Share 65+ vs. Medigap Plan G
Meanwhile, many of our clients use their savings to enroll in their local YMCA or activity club or center. Or just create their own activities themselves by walking, golfing, weightlifting, swimming. or playing pickleball or tennis.
How to Access the Silver Sneakers Program
To access Silver Sneakers, you’ll need coverage beyond original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans often include Silver Sneakers as an additional benefit, and the cost of the program is built into the premium.
Some plans offer an alternative benefit that is similar to Silver Sneakers, such as Silver&Fit or United HealthCare’s Renew Active program.
Silver&Fit may have a nominal fee, while Silver Sneakers is built in to the cost structure of the plan and available at no extra charge
Note: Not every Medicare plan includes a health club membership benefit like Silver Sneakers. So if this type of program is important to you, check your plan to make sure you’re eligible.
To learn more about Silver Sneakers, or to find or switch to a plan that includes the Silver Sneakers benefit, contact a MediGap Advisors Personal Benefits Manager today for a free consultation and plan recommendation.
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The Silver Sneakers Program Conclusion
Don’t choose your plan based on Silver Sneakers alone!
Silver Sneakers is just one of many factors to consider when evaluating health plans.
The important thing is that you get active and engaged in your wellness goals, however that looks for you.
Questions?
We’re here to help!
Further Reading: How to Self-Enroll in the Medi-Share 65+ Health Sharing Plan|Does Medi-Share 65+ Pay When Traveling Outside the U.S?|10 Medicare Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Plan
Misty Berryman is one of your Personal Benefits Managers at Medigap Advisors. She loves working for Medigap Advisors for many reasons, including being part of the solution to one of life’s most important healthcare challenges: choosing the right Medicare plan. Read more about Misty on her Bio page.