How Can You Become a Silver Sneakers Member?
You can become a SilverSneakers member by having an eligible health plan. Eligibility can be determined by contacting your health provider’s customer service department. SilverSneakers is offered to many Medicare plans throughout the nation.
SilverSneakers is a free insurance benefit that is included in Medicare programs for individuals who are over 65. A gym membership is given to those who qualify, typically at no cost. The membership allows members to access more than 13,000 fitness locations across the nation. As of March 2015, 11 million people have this benefit.
To begin enjoying the amenities SilverSneakers offers, individuals must bring their SilverSneakers membership identification or a temporary SilverSneakers card along with a health plan identification card to the gym facility.
Enrollment in SilverSneakers takes about 30 minutes, with extra time allotted for a tour of the location. Many locations offer access to treadmills, weights and stationary bicycles. Not every gym or fitness center offers SilverSneakers.
Classes offered are designed for full body conditioning and involve strength, endurance, flexibility, agility, balance and coordination training. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing, exercise balls and chairs are typically available for use. Each location provides individual or group tours so SilverSneakers members can become familiar with the equipment and classes.
