Medicare and SilverSneakers combine to keep seniors active

It's taken more than 5,000 years for Western medicine's diagnostic approach to catch up with Eastern medicine's focus on prevention. Healthcare insurers now realize the value of holistic preventative care, such as diet and exercise, to lower one's risk of disease. It's a win-win situation when insurance companies help members lead healthier lives through such programs as SilverSneakers.

Medicare currently offers the SilverSneakers program, and others, through many Medicare-approved health plans to members age 65 and over. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SilverSneakers is delivering online fitness classes through popular meeting software in lieu of onsite classes, plus more than 200 pre-recorded fitness videos on-demand, like "Balance Builder" and "Exercise for Stress Relief." They also offer live classes and other workout videos via social media to members and non-member "fans."

From yoga and "EnerChi" to low-impact cardio dance, they provide a safer alternative to in-person fitness classes.

Chop toit

SilverSneakers transforms your computer or mobile phone into a portal to better health. Sign in or download their app to access live streaming classes and videos with fitness experts.

Feeling out of shape? Strengthen core muscles with their "Chop" exercise. Try the "Loaded Chop" by adding a small weight, book or even soup can. Everyone benefits from better balance as they age. They've got 10-minute workout videos for that and much more.

A sense of community

According to the AARP Foundation, even before COVID-19, nearly 17% of older adults remain socially isolated due to changes in family structure, ill health, loss of friends or other issues. Creating a community of like-minded older adults remains one of SilverSneakers' key objectives. Post-pandemic, SilverSneakers can again offer onsite fitness classes at local gyms and recreation centers.

SilverSneakers also offers wal king groups and classes in wellness and nutrition to keep members socializing and informed.

Beyond fitness

SilverSneakers addresses non-fitness challenges seniors face as well. Members can find myriad wellness articles, such as, "4 Steps to Conquer Clutter - and Improve Your Health," and "6 Ways to Cope with Anxiety - Without Meds," on their website. From breathing exercises to mindfulness meditations, they provide a wealth of information for seniors.

Food for thought

Good nutrition becomes even more crucial as we age.

Access healthy recipes, such as guacamole and red pepper omelets with high quality protein, healthy fats, fiber and nut rient-dense veggies. Learn which foods can jumpstart your weight loss and lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

(Hint: bacon and salty chips aren't it.) Think low-carb spiralized zucchini, spaghetti or butternut squash shaped like pasta topped with a delicious, low-salt tomato sauce.

Start your day with cholesterol-lowering steel-cut oatmeal.

Increase your intake of fiber with grains such as quinoa that packs a full range of amino acids. Or enjoy a bowl of mixed strawberries and blueberries topped with low-fat yogurt for a heart-healthy snack.

You'll also find articles and exercises to boost your brain and improve your mood. That's a lot of perks for a single Medicare benefit.

A program for everyone

You can join SilverSneakers at no extra cost through a variety of health insurance companies, including Aetna Medicare, Anthem Blue Cross, BSC Promise Health Plan, Blue Shield of California, Brand New Day, Colonial Penn Medicare, Supplement Plan D, Humana, L.A. Care, Providence, SCAN Health Plan and Vitality. Be sure to check whether coverage is available in your particular plan during this open enrollment period.

Visit silversneakers.com to check your eligibility, email them at support@silversneakers.com or call 866.584.7389 for further information.

—Lori Berezin, Custom Publishing Writer