Depending on your Medicare plan, you may have access to a complimentary or discounted gym membership. While original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not provide this benefit, certain Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare supplement (Medigap) plans do offer such perks.
Does Medicare Cover Gym Memberships?
Original Medicare does not include coverage for gym memberships. However, if you are enrolled in an Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, your benefits may encompass a gym membership and other fitness options.
These fitness benefits are typically provided through three major programs:
- Offers free membership if you qualify.
- Provides access to drop-in classes at over 15,000 local community centers and gyms nationwide.
- Online fitness classes are also available.
- Available to nearly 5 million Medicare enrollees.
- Offers either no-cost or low-cost gym memberships at more than 18,000 fitness centers across the U.S.
- Eligible individuals receive a home fitness kit annually.
Does Medicare Cover the SilverSneakers Program?
SilverSneakers is available at no extra cost through certain MA plans. This benefit provides access to over 15,000 fitness locations, including gyms, local YMCAs, and community centers, for in-person workouts. It includes various classes such as yoga, pilates, and water fitness, and participants can also access online classes and workshops.
What about Silver&Fit?
Participating in Silver&Fit through an MA plan grants access to over 18,000 fitness centers nationwide at no or low cost. Members are also eligible for a home fitness kit every benefit year, which includes options like Fitbit and Garmin wearable fitness trackers, as well as kits for pilates, strength, swim, and yoga.
Do Medicare Supplement Plans Include a Gym Membership?
Medigap plans primarily cover out-of-pocket expenses but may also include gym membership coverage in some cases, typically covering the entire membership cost.
How Can I Find a Gym that Accepts Medicare Advantage Coverage?
Check your health insurance plan’s benefits to see if a free gym membership is included. Log into your insurer’s website or call to confirm this perk or access to Silver&Fit or SilverSneakers. Each program has a search tool using your ZIP code to help you find nearby gyms and fitness opportunities.
In summary, gym memberships are covered by select Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare supplement (Medigap) plans, providing older adults with opportunities to stay active through various fitness options, both in-person and online. If your Medicare plan includes fitness benefits, you may access traditional gym memberships and attend diverse classes, promoting overall health and well-being.
How to Enroll in Your Medicare Advantage or Medigap Fitness Program:
If your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan offers access to a fitness program, the plan should have already sent you information on how to avail these benefits. If not, simply reach out to your insurer and inquire about the process for accessing the covered fitness program. In some cases, you may need to present a card at participating facilities to join classes and use their amenities. In nearly all instances, there should be no additional fee, providing you with full access to the facility. For home fitness programs, ask your insurer for more details on where to find specific signup instructions online.
What to Do If Your Insurance Doesn’t Cover Gym Memberships:
Unfortunately, if your plan doesn’t include benefits like Silver Sneakers or Silver & Fit, you won’t be able to enroll in these particular programs. However, you do have the option to independently join a gym and pay the associated fee. Alternatively, you can explore Medicare plans that offer gym coverage during the upcoming open enrollment period.
For active seniors aiming to maintain their fitness levels, obtaining a gym membership can be a crucial consideration when evaluating Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans.
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