Regular exercise is an important part of healthy aging. That’s why many
Medicare plans offer affordable exercise programs among their benefits. Today,
in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a flexible fitness option is more
essential than ever in helping seniors stay fit, strong, and healthy.To help
seniors meet their exercise needs, the Silver&Fit® program from American
Specialty Health Fitness, Inc. (ASH Fitness) is available through participating
Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans open for enrollment to
Medicare beneficiaries now."
The closing of gyms for seniors who were used to an exercise routine can
have a significant impact on health," says Jaynie Bjornaraa, PhD, MPH, PT,
and AVP of Digital Fitness Solutions with Silver&Fit. "Older adults
who stop exercising can become deconditioned in as little as two
weeks."The Silver&Fit program offers a variety of exercise and fitness
options, including online or digital options, to accommodate all levels of
fitness.
Here are some of the choices.• 1,700+ On-Demand Fitness
Videos. The Silver&Fit video library lets members customize their
at-home exercise routines with a collection of workouts available through the
Silver&Fit website or mobile app.• In-Person Gym Access. As gyms are permitted
to open, and when members feel comfortable going back into the gyms again, the
Silver&Fit network will be ready and waiting for them. The Silver&Fit
program includes gym access and members can choose from a nation-wide network
of more than 15,000 fitness centers, YMCAs, and fitness studios.• Live
Telephone Coaching. Members seeking help with fitness goals or lifestyle
improvements can work with a live coach to obtain advice on fitness, nutrition,
sleep, and other healthy living habits.•
Social Engagement for Emotional Support and Community
Connections. Social isolation can impact mental and emotional health,
contributing to poor overall health.
The Silver&Fit program links members to more than 120,000
organizations ranging from chess and painting clubs, to classic car and nature
organizations. This resource allows members to browse the clubs that suit them
and reach out to join in on their Zoom or other virtual or socially distanced
meetings to safely connect with like-minded contemporaries.• At-Home Fitness
Kits. For those who want to create or enhance their own workouts at home,
Silver&Fit has developed home fitness kits. Kits may include an exercise
DVD, a workout mat, hand towel, resistance band, dumbbells, or wearable fitness
trackers.The Silver&Fit program also offers free daily workouts for the
public on Facebook Live or YouTube. Anyone can join these popular exercise
classes tailored to the needs of older adults.
The initial intermediate classes, such as cardio, yoga, strength, and
others, were so successful that beginning October 12, 2020, Silver&Fit
added beginner and advanced level classes, as well as classes hosted virtually
featuring locations from around the world. All classes are taught by certified
instructors with experience creating classes for older adults.To participate in
a free exercise class, follow Silver&Fit on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SilverandFit or
on YouTube at www.youtube.com/silverandfit.For information about whether
your Medicare plan includes the Silver&Fit program, contact your health
plan or 1-800-MEDICARE.