Does UnitedHealthcare Medicare Cover SilverSneakers?
- Some UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for a program called Renew Active. Renew Active is similar to SilverSneakers but also incorporates brain health activities. Learn more about the Renew Active program.
UnitedHealthcare SilverSneakers® is a senior-focused fitness program that is included as a benefit of many Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans and some Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plans.
UnitedHealthcare actually did away with its SilverSneakers offering in 2019 in 11 states where they offered Medicare Advantage plans and in 9 states where they offered Medicare Supplement Insurance plans.
But UnitedHealthcare plan members are not completely locked out of the gym. Some Medicare Advantage plans from UnitedHealthcare may include coverage for a different program called “Renew Active.”
Is Renew Active the Same as SilverSneakers?
No, but Renew Active is similar to SilverSneakers: Renew Active offers similar things as SilverSneakers, but also incorporates brain health into the activities offered.
Renew Active participants receive a 1-on-1 session with a personal trainer to set fitness-related goals and form a personalized fitness plan. Members will meet with the trainer on an annual basis to track their progress and review their goals.
Activities may include:
- Strength training
- Cardio exercises
- Stretching
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Tai chi
- Self-defense training
- Zumba
UnitedHealthcare also partners with AARP for the Staying Sharp program, which helps members exercise their brain.
Participants start by taking a brain-health assessment and receiving personalized recommendations based on the results. Recommendations can include puzzles, games, activities, recipes and articles made available to members all designed to boost brain health.
Renew Active members also have an opportunity to join the UnitedHealthcare Fitbit Community and gain access to thousands of workout videos, share personal milestones and participate in fitness challenges. A Fitbit device is not required to join and participate in the community.
How Much Does Renew Active Cost?
There is no additional monthly premium to participate in the Renew Active program.
The cost of a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan with Renew Active will vary depending on location, and plans that cover the program may not be available in all areas.
Renew Active Locations
UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan members with a Renew Active benefit can use the “Find a Fitness Location” search tool to find a gym or fitness center in their area that’s part of the Renew Active program. Members also have the option of working out from home using Fitbit Premium with thousands of online workout videos.
A wide range of national chain gyms, local gyms and community organizations like senior centers are part of the Renew Active program. Some locations may feature additional amenities such as pools or saunas that members can use as part of their Renew Active benefits.
Locations with a pool may incorporate water aerobics, swimming and other pool activities.
Who Covers SilverSneakers?
