UnitedHealthcare provides fitness programs tailored for seniors, but the answer to whether they offer SilverSneakers specifically isn’t straightforward. While SilverSneakers® used to be a widely recognized benefit in many Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) and some Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plans, the landscape has shifted.
Back in 2019, UnitedHealthcare discontinued its SilverSneakers program in 11 states for Medicare Advantage plans and 9 states for Medicare Supplement Insurance plans. This change left many members wondering about their fitness benefits.
However, UnitedHealthcare members aren’t left without gym access. Many UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans now include a similar, and in some ways enhanced, program called “Renew Active.”
Renew Active: An Alternative to SilverSneakers
Renew Active is not the same as SilverSneakers, but it serves a very similar purpose. It offers comparable fitness opportunities while also placing an emphasis on brain health, adding a unique dimension to its offerings.
A key feature of Renew Active is a personalized approach. Participants start with a one-on-one session with a personal trainer to establish fitness goals and create a customized workout plan. These sessions are repeated annually to monitor progress and adjust goals as needed.
Renew Active provides access to a wide variety of activities, including:
- Strength training
- Cardio workouts
- Stretching exercises
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Tai chi
- Self-defense training
- Zumba
Beyond physical fitness, UnitedHealthcare also collaborates with AARP on the Staying Sharp program, designed to promote brain health. This program encourages members to engage in brain exercises through assessments and personalized recommendations. These recommendations can include puzzles, games, recipes, and articles, all aimed at boosting cognitive function.
Renew Active members can also join the UnitedHealthcare Fitbit Community, gaining access to numerous workout videos, sharing fitness achievements, and participating in challenges. Importantly, a Fitbit device is not required to be part of this online community.
Renew Active Costs and Locations
The Renew Active program doesn’t involve any extra monthly premium. It’s included as part of select UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans.
The cost of a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan that includes Renew Active will vary depending on your location and plan availability in your area. Not all plans in all areas include Renew Active.
To find Renew Active locations, UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan members can use the “Find a Fitness Location” search tool available on the Renew Active website. This tool helps identify participating gyms and fitness centers in your vicinity. The Renew Active network includes a diverse range of options, from national gym chains to local fitness centers and community organizations like senior centers. Some locations may also offer extra amenities like pools or saunas. For those who prefer to exercise at home, Renew Active also provides access to Fitbit Premium with a vast library of online workout videos.
While UnitedHealthcare may not universally offer SilverSneakers now, Renew Active provides a robust and potentially more comprehensive fitness benefit for many of its Medicare Advantage plan members. It’s recommended to check the specific benefits of your UnitedHealthcare plan or plans you are considering to confirm whether Renew Active is included.
