SilverSneakers is covered by many Medicare plans, but not all of them
SilverSneakers is a fitness program included in some Medicare Advantage plans and a few Medigap policies. It is not part of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Whether you have access depends entirely on which specific plan you chose or were assigned to. The only way to know for certain is to check your plan documents or call the member services number on your insurance card.
If your plan does include SilverSneakers, you typically pay nothing to join or use the program. You get access to fitness classes, gym equipment, and sometimes swimming pools at participating locations. The program is designed for people 65 and older and focuses on exercises that build strength, balance, and flexibility.
Key Takeaways
- SilverSneakers is included in many Medicare Advantage plans but is not part of Original Medicare.
- Your plan documents or member services line will tell you whether SilverSneakers is part of your coverage.
- If you have SilverSneakers through your plan, there is no additional cost to join or attend classes.
- You can use SilverSneakers at gyms, community centers, and other fitness locations in your area that are part of the network.
Which Medicare plans typically include SilverSneakers
Most Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C) offer SilverSneakers as a supplemental benefit. Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover everything Original Medicare covers, and many add extra benefits like fitness programs. However, not every Medicare Advantage plan includes it, and the specific benefits vary by plan and by region.
A small number of Medigap plans (supplemental insurance policies) also include SilverSneakers, though this is less common. Medigap plans are standardized by the federal government, so if your Medigap plan includes SilverSneakers, it will be listed in the plan details you received when you signed up.
If you have Original Medicare with no supplemental coverage, SilverSneakers is not part of your plan. You could join a gym or fitness program on your own, but Medicare would not cover the cost.
How to learn about your plan covers SilverSneakers
Start by looking at the plan documents you received when you enrolled or at the start of each calendar year. These documents list all covered benefits. Search for "SilverSneakers" or look under sections labeled "fitness benefits" or "wellness programs." The documents will tell you whether the benefit is included and any details about how to use it.
If you cannot find the answer in your documents, call the member services number on your insurance card. Have your member ID ready. Tell them you want to know whether SilverSneakers is included in your plan. They can give you a yes or no answer and, if yes, explain how to sign up and find locations near you.
You can also visit the SilverSneakers website and enter your zip code to see which plans in your area offer the program. This shows you what is available but does not tell you which plan you personally have. Use it to compare if you are shopping for a new plan during open enrollment.
How to sign up for SilverSneakers if your plan covers it
If your plan includes SilverSneakers, you do not need to do anything to be "enrolled." The benefit is automatically part of your coverage. However, you do need to set up your membership before you can use it.
Visit the SilverSneakers website or call their member services line to set up your account. You will need your Medicare member ID number (found on your insurance card) and your date of birth. The process takes just a few minutes. Once activated, you can start using the program right away.
After set up, you can find participating gyms and fitness centers near you using the SilverSneakers location finder on their website or app. You can also attend classes at community centers and senior centers that partner with the program. Bring your SilverSneakers membership card or show your member ID when you arrive.
What SilverSneakers covers and what it does not
SilverSneakers gives you access to gym facilities and group fitness classes at no cost. This includes use of cardio equipment, weight machines, and free weights. Most locations also offer classes like yoga, water aerobics, tai chi, and strength training led by instructors. Some locations have swimming pools included.
SilverSneakers does not cover personal training sessions, specialized coaching, or one-on-one instruction, though some locations offer these services for an additional fee. It does not cover equipment you take home, nutritional counseling, or physical therapy. If you need physical therapy after an injury or surgery, that is covered separately under your Medicare plan's rehabilitation benefits, not through SilverSneakers.
The specific classes and facilities available depend on which gyms and centers participate in your area. Rural areas may have fewer options than urban or suburban areas. Call ahead or check the location finder to see what is available near you.
What to do if your plan does not include SilverSneakers
If your Medicare plan does not include SilverSneakers, you have other options. You can join a gym or fitness program on your own and pay out of pocket. Many gyms offer discounts for seniors or people over 65, so ask about senior rates when you inquire.
Some community centers, YMCAs, and senior centers offer low-cost or free fitness classes for older adults. These are often in your neighborhood and do not require a gym membership. Call your local parks and recreation department or senior center to ask what programs they offer.
If you are unhappy with your current plan and want SilverSneakers coverage, you can switch to a different plan during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. Your new coverage would start on January 1. You can also switch plans if you move to a new state or county where your current plan is no longer available.
Questions to ask your doctor about fitness and SilverSneakers
Before you start using SilverSneakers or any new fitness program, talk to your doctor, especially if you have heart disease, joint problems, diabetes, or any condition that limits your movement. Your doctor can tell you what types of exercise are safe for you and what to avoid.
Ask your doctor whether SilverSneakers classes are appropriate for your health situation or whether you should work with a physical therapist first. If you have had a recent surgery or injury, your doctor may recommend starting with supervised physical therapy before moving to group fitness classes.
Tell your doctor about any pain, shortness of breath, or unusual symptoms you experience during or after exercise. These can be signs that you need to adjust your activity level or that something else needs medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Original Medicare cover SilverSneakers?
No. SilverSneakers is not part of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). It is offered as an added benefit by some Medicare Advantage plans and a few Medigap policies. If you have Original Medicare only, you would need to join a gym or fitness program separately and pay for it yourself.
Can I use SilverSneakers at any gym?
No. SilverSneakers only works at gyms, fitness centers, and community locations that are part of their network. Use the location finder on the SilverSneakers website to see which facilities near you participate. Availability varies by area, and rural locations may have fewer options than cities.
What happens to my SilverSneakers membership if I switch Medicare plans?
If you switch to a plan that also includes SilverSneakers, your membership continues with no gap. If you switch to a plan that does not include it, your SilverSneakers benefit ends. You would need to join a gym or fitness program separately if you want to continue exercising.
Is there a cost to use SilverSneakers if my plan covers it?
No. If your plan includes SilverSneakers, there is no monthly fee, no enrollment cost, and no charge per class or visit. You pay nothing beyond your regular plan premium. Some locations may charge for services beyond the basic membership, like personal training.
Can I sign up for SilverSneakers if I am under 65?
SilverSneakers is designed for people 65 and older. If you are under 65 and have Medicare because of a disability or end-stage renal disease, check with your plan to see whether you can use SilverSneakers. Some plans extend the benefit to all members regardless of age.