Medicare's coverage for gym memberships for seniors? Exploring senior fitness and Medicare benefits
For seniors looking to maintain an active lifestyle, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer a range of fitness benefits that can make staying fit more affordable. However, it's essential to understand that not every plan includes these benefits, and the specific offerings can vary significantly between plans.
Many Medicare Advantage plans partner with fitness program providers such as SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and Renew Active, providing access to participating gyms and fitness centres at no extra cost or at a reduced rate for members. Some plans may also offer additional fitness benefits, such as gym membership reimbursements, fitness equipment purchases, or wellness programs.
However, the availability and extent of these benefits depend on the insurance company offering the plan and the specific plan you enroll in. It's crucial to check the details of your plan to understand which fitness benefits are included, as some may require tracking activity or visiting specific gyms.
For instance, Renew Active, offered by UnitedHealthcare and AARP, includes a gym membership, an online program for mental acuity, and access to UnitedHealthcare-sponsored events. On the other hand, SeniorPHIT, offered by Aetna, includes two wellness plans, two meal plans, and an online coach.
It's also worth noting that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships. Therefore, seniors who want to take advantage of fitness benefits may find Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans more suitable.
To help you compare the fitness benefits available, you can search for a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan on the Medicare website. The site offers a search tool for plan availability in your zip code. Some Medicare Advantage plans even offer their own fitness programs, such as Wellness programs, SeniorPHIT, Renew Active, and SilverSneakers.
Moreover, some Medigap plans, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, offer gym memberships and fitness benefits. If you already have a Medigap plan, you can call your plan provider to find out if you have coverage for gym memberships or fitness programs.
Remember, a person cannot enroll in a fitness centre and a home fitness program at the same time. If your plan does not list fitness coverage, don't hesitate to call the plan provider to confirm.
One popular home fitness program is Silver&Fit, which offers access to local gyms and fitness services at YMCAs, including heart and strength training and amenities such as swimming pools, saunas, and whirlpools. Some Medigap plans may also include access to the Silver&Fit Home Fitness programs, in which an individual can choose to have two fitness kits mailed to their home each benefit year.
In summary, while gym membership and fitness program coverage is common in many Medicare Advantage plans, it is not a universal benefit and can vary widely between different plans. It's always a good idea to research all options to find the plan that best suits your fitness needs.
- Many Medicare Advantage plans, such as those offering SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and Renew Active, provide access to gyms and fitness centers at no extra cost or reduced rates for members.
- Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer additional fitness benefits, like gym membership reimbursements, fitness equipment purchases, or wellness programs.
- It's essential to check the details of your Medicare Advantage plan to understand which fitness benefits are included, as some may require tracking activity or visiting specific gyms.
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships, making Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans more suitable for seniors who want to take advantage of fitness benefits.
