Getting active and physically fit can do wonders for your health. However, unless you have a medical diagnosis that requires physical therapy or rehabilitation, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally will not pay for gym memberships or fitness programs. You pay 100% for any non-covered service.1
Let’s explore how a Medicare Advantage plan can help pay for gym memberships and/or fitness programs.
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as “Part C” or “MA” plans, are sometimes referred to all-in-one packages for Original Medicare services. They cover Part A and Part B, and most include Part D (prescription drug coverage) as well. Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer health and wellness benefits that aren’t available with Original Medicare. The extra benefits in Medicare Advantage plans differ by insurance company and location. If a paid gym membership or fitness program is important to you, make sure this benefit is offered in the plan you choose.
Humana Medicare Advantage plans come with Go365®, a wellness program that rewards members for participating in activities that support their health goals. Go365 celebrates achievements and helps make exercise and activities more fun.
In addition, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check if your preferred gym is participating with a covered fitness program such as SilverSneakers®. This could lead to no-cost gym memberships or classes at an exercise facility.
What is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is a fitness program designed for older adults to help keep them active and improve their health. SilverSneakers comes as a no-cost extra benefit in most Humana Medicare Advantage plans. With SilverSneakers, you can find local exercise facilities, sign up for online fitness programs and begin your journey to better health.
With so many gyms and exercise facilities to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin. To start, look up gyms nearby that have what you need to work on your wellness goals. So, if you want to add swimming to your exercise routine, find a local gym with a pool.
Once you’ve decided on a location, it’s time to enroll! Depending on the facility, you can sign up at the gym itself, online or over the phone.
For more information on Medicare, check out these frequently asked questions about Medicare plans.
