Does Aetna Medicare Cover Silver Sneakers?

A common question we get asked at Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC is whether Aetna Medicare plans cover the popular Silver Sneakers fitness program. We all want to stay active as we age, right? So let’s dive into what you need to know about Aetna’s coverage of Silver Sneakers. Don’t worry, we’ll make this as easy as pie — no complicated insurance jargon here.

What Is Silver Sneakers Anyway?

Silver Sneakers is a wellness program designed specifically for older adults. It offers access to thousands of gyms across the country, group exercise classes, and online fitness options — all tailored to seniors. Think of it as your ticket to affordable fitness, whether you prefer yoga, swimming, or Zumba (yes, Zumba is still a thing!).

Why Is Silver Sneakers Important?

1. It promotes healthy aging — Regular exercise helps prevent health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
2. Social engagement — Exercising with others can prevent isolation, which we all know isn’t great for your mental health.
3. Flexibility — Whether you like working out at home or the gym, Silver Sneakers gives you the flexibility to choose.

So… Silver Sneakers is pretty awesome. But what about Aetna? Let’s get to that.

Does Aetna Medicare Offer Silver Sneakers?

Now here’s the kicker. Not all Aetna Medicare plans include Silver Sneakers. Some of Aetna’s Medicare Advantage plans offer it, while others do not. It all depends on the specific plan you’re enrolled in and where you live. Aetna has a habit of mixing things up with their offerings, kind of like when your favorite TV show changes the lead actor for no reason.

How Do I Know if My Aetna Plan Covers Silver Sneakers?

To see if your Aetna plan covers Silver Sneakers, you’ll need to:

• Check your specific plan’s benefits (sounds fun, right?)
• Call the customer service number on your Aetna card
• Visit Aetna’s website and log into your account

According to Henry Beltran, owner of Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC, “It’s important to look at the details of your plan, especially the fitness benefits. A lot of folks assume they’re covered, but that’s not always the case.”

So yeah, just because your friend down the street is covered doesn’t mean you are. Aetna’s plans can vary by state and even county — kinda like how the weather can be 75 degrees where you are and snowing two miles away.

What If My Aetna Plan Doesn’t Cover Silver Sneakers?

Ok so what if you checked, and bummer, your Aetna plan doesn’t include Silver Sneakers? Well, don’t give up on your fitness dreams just yet. You still have options. Here are a few alternatives:

Look for Fitness Benefits Through Aetna

Some Aetna plans offer alternative fitness benefits, like discounts on gym memberships or other wellness programs. They might not be Silver Sneakers, but it’s better than sitting on the couch watching reruns of Wheel of Fortune.

Consider Switching Your Medicare Advantage Plan

Medicare Advantage plans can be switched annually during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7). You can shop around for a new plan that includes Silver Sneakers or another fitness benefit.

Pro tip: Be sure to weigh the pros and cons. Henry Beltran says, “Don’t switch just because of Silver Sneakers. Look at the whole picture — your medical needs, prescriptions, and doctors. Fitness is important, but your health coverage comes first.” Sounds like a wise guy, right?

Potential Drawbacks (with a Wink!)

Let’s be real, even if your Aetna plan covers Silver Sneakers, it’s not all sunshine and Pilates. There could be a few quirks to consider.

• Limited Gym Availability: Sure, Silver Sneakers claims to offer access to thousands of gyms, but if you live in a rural area, you might find your options are limited. No one wants to drive 30 miles to use a treadmill — unless you really, really like treadmills.
• Class Schedules: Some of the classes might not align with your schedule. It’s always at 10 a.m. when you have a dentist appointment or at 5 p.m. when you’re ready to wind down. Go figure.
• Overcrowded Gyms: Gyms partnering with Silver Sneakers can get a little crowded, especially during peak times. It can feel like trying to find a parking spot at Costco on a Saturday.

How to Sign Up for Silver Sneakers with Aetna Medicare

If your plan does cover Silver Sneakers, signing up is easy:

1. Visit the Silver Sneakers website to check if you’re eligible.
2. Get your Silver Sneakers ID number.
3. Find a participating gym or class near you. (Good luck with that!)
4. Show up! Don’t forget to bring your Silver Sneakers ID.

If you prefer to workout at home, they also offer online classes and fitness videos. So you can sweat it out in your living room, and no one has to know you took a break for a snack halfway through.

What Happens if You Switch Plans?

If you decide to switch your Medicare Advantage plan in the future, just make sure to check if the new plan includes Silver Sneakers. You don’t want to lose access to your favorite yoga class just because you liked the new plan’s dental coverage. That would be like trading in your car for a fancy new one and realizing it doesn’t have cup holders.

Final Thoughts

Aetna Medicare may or may not cover Silver Sneakers, depending on your plan. It’s a little like playing bingo — sometimes you get lucky, sometimes not. If you’re looking for fitness benefits, check your plan details carefully. And remember, switching plans might be an option during the enrollment period, but be sure to look at your health needs first, not just the fitness perks.

As Henry Beltran wisely notes, “Your fitness is important, but never at the expense of your medical care.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.