Does Aetna Medicare Cover SilverSneakers?

Yes, certain Aetna Medicare Advantage plans provide SilverSneakers membership, a widely recognized nationwide fitness and wellness program for older adults.

This popular benefit allows Aetna plan members to improve their fitness, engage their minds, and socialize with other similarly-minded folks. Membership includes access to 15,000 participating facilities across the country. High-quality fitness facilities like the YMCA or private gyms participate in most locations. SilverSneakers also includes online enrichment activities, an app, live activities, and classes. Thus, members can skip traveling to a gym to enjoy many of the benefits offered by this program.

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Which Aetna Plans Include a SilverSneakers Membership?

Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans – Yes

Aetna advertises that the SilverSneakers benefit comes bundled with most Medicare Advantage plans. However, enrolling in Aetna Medicare Advantage plans does not always guarantee access to the Silver Sneakers program.

In rare cases, Aetna may provide Medicare plans in a geographic area with no local SilverSneakers program participants. Thus, members might still use online resources but not a local gym. The insurance company often offers alternatives, like a home exercise kit with fitness videos and equipment.

How can you tell if your Aetna Medicare Advantage plan includes this fitness program? You can use the company’s search tool, or one of our insurance agents can guide you.

Aetna Medicare Supplement Plans – No

If you have an Aetna Medicare Supplement plan like Plan G or Plan N, it’s important to know that these plans do not include free gym memberships like SilverSneakers or Renew Active — those are typically only tied to Medicare Advantage plans.

However, Aetna does offer fitness discounts through its member wellness program. You can save on gym memberships, health coaching, and fitness programs via partners like GlobalFit. While you’ll still pay for your gym membership, you’ll get reduced rates.

To access these discounts, log in to your Aetna member portal and look for the fitness or wellness discounts section. From there, you can enroll in a gym discount program or get a code to present at participating fitness centers.

Note: These are optional discounts — not insurance benefits — so you’ll be responsible for reduced fees.

How Much Does SilverSneakers Cost With an Aetna Advantage Plan?

Great news about SilverSneakers with an Aetna Advantage plan:

• The SilverSneakers fitness program is included at no extra cost beyond your standard plan premium (which may vary by county).
• Participating facilities will not charge any additional fees to plan members.

How to Enroll in an Aetna Medicare Advantage Plan With SilverSneakers

Enrollment in Medicare Advantage requires Part A and B Medicare coverage. Medicare offers an Open Enrollment Period each autumn for people to join or switch plans. New beneficiaries will also have a chance to sign up when they first qualify for Medicare.

Besides Aetna, other insurance companies also offer SilverSneakers as a benefit with their Medicare plans. Plans that provide an exercise program may also offer discounts for health-related products and services, like OTC medicine, nutritional supplements, and healthcare supplies.

How Do I Locate SilverSneakers Gyms Near Me?

Finding a SilverSneakers-participating gym near you is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Whether you’re an Aetna Medicare Advantage member or considering enrolling, here’s how to check which gyms are included in the SilverSneakers network in your area:

• Visit the Official SilverSneakers Website
  Go to www.silversneakers.com. This is the most accurate and up-to-date resource for finding participating fitness centers.

• Use the Location Finder Tool
  Click “Find Fitness Locations” on the top navigation bar on the homepage. Enter your ZIP code or city and state, then hit search. You’ll see a list of nearby gyms, fitness centers, and community locations that offer SilverSneakers programs.

• Filter by Amenities
  If you have specific needs (like a pool, yoga classes, or strength training), use the filters to narrow down the list. This ensures you find a gym that fits your preferences and health goals.

• Check Participation Details
  Some facilities offer full access, while others may only provide SilverSneakers classes. Click on the individual gym listing to understand what’s included.

• Confirm with the Gym
  While the website is reliable, it’s a good idea to call the gym directly to confirm they still participate in the SilverSneakers program and to ask about class schedules or enrollment requirements.

• Create a SilverSneakers Account (Optional)
  You can sign up for a free SilverSneakers account on their site to save your favorite gyms, access virtual workouts, and receive personalized fitness content.

Bottom Line

Plans that offer a fitness program can help you achieve your health goals. If you live in an area where Aetna does not offer SilverSneakers, you can always enroll in a membership directly with SilverSneakers at a monthly cost that ranges from $15.00 to $50.00. One of our agents can help you locate the best plan that includes SilverSneakers and assist you in shopping and comparing plans to find the best medical and drug benefits.

Sources: eHealth – Aetna Website – SilverSneakers

FAQs

• What is SilverSneakers?

  The SilverSneakers program is meant for seniors over the age of 65 and is offered as a part of several Medicare plans focusing on health and fitness.

• How Much Does Silver Sneakers Cost Per Month?

  The program’s cost depends on your location and the fitness locations you choose to attend. If your Medicare plan doesn’t cover it, the monthly program fee ranges from $15 to $50. With this fee, you can access all Silver Sneakers classes and activities at participating fitness locations.

• Does Original Medicare Cover SilverSneakers?

  Original Medicare does not include an exercise program under its primary coverage. Medicare Part A and B cover services from medical providers, and Part D covers prescription drugs. For instance, Medicare covers physical therapy but not fitness classes.

  However, many health insurance plans from private insurers include fitness programs as an added benefit. The fitness program helps keep members healthier, benefiting the insurance company and the members.

• Does SilverSneakers Offer More Than Gym Memberships?

  In some cases, a SilverSneakers membership also includes access to the FLEX program. This program provides members with a network of local fitness alternatives. These exercise alternatives could include various dance or exercise classes, water aerobics, balance exercises, and running or walking groups. Not everybody enjoys hitting the gym for weight or cardio machines. Some older and infirm people struggle to travel away from home. Thus, these alternatives can keep more people engaged in fitness and offer a fun way to socialize with new people.