Regular exercise is an essential part of healthy aging. Many Medicare plans include affordable exercise programs as part of their benefits. A flexible fitness option is essential for seniors today, especially in light of the COVID-19 epidemic.
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. These are just a few of the options.
• 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.A live coach can help members achieve their goals and improve their lifestyle.
• Social Engagement for Emotional Support and Community Connections.Social isolation can negatively impact your mental and emotional well-being, which can then lead 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. You can search for the right club and contact them to be part of their Zoom meeting or any other distance-based virtual meeting to make safe connections with like-minded peers.
• At-Home Fitness Kits. For those who want to create or enhance their own workouts at home, Silver&Fit has developed home fitness kits. The kit may include an exercise DVD or hand towel, a resistance band, dumbbells or a wearable fitness tracker.
The Silver&Fit program also offers free daily workouts for the public on Facebook Live or YouTube. You can join these popular classes that are tailored for 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 only by qualified instructors who have experience in creating classes for older adults.
To participate in a free exercise class, follow Silver&Fit on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SilverandFitYou can also find us on YouTube www.youtube.com/silverandfit.
For information about whether your Medicare plan includes the Silver&Fit program, contact your health plan or 1-800-MEDICARE. Visit www.SilverandFit.comFor more information on the program, click here
