BackKeeping Older Adults Active and Fit
Article submitted by SilverSneakers Fitness Program. To find out if you may be eligible for this benefit, please call SilverSneakers Customer Service toll-free at 1.800.423.4632 or visit the SilverSneakers Web site at www.silversneakers.com
The importance of physical activity for older adults continues to be studied more frequently, and many conclusions show that the more active older adults are, the more likely they are able to prevent the onset of such diseases as diabetes and heart disease while controlling other conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis. The good news is that there is a unique and fun solution that helps the older population stay in or get back in shape - the award-winning SilverSneakers® Fitness Program. In Utah, SilverSneakers is offered available at no additional cost beyond the monthly premium to Medicare eligible members of Humana.
SilverSneakers members receive a membership at a participating fitness center, where they can take advantage of conditioning classes, exercise equipment, pool, sauna and other amenities. Each fitness center provides a specially trained Senior AdvisorSM to introduce members to the program and acquaint them with the site. Additionally, every site offers customized SilverSneakers classes, which allow members to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. Health education seminars, social events and health screenings for conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol may also be offered.
"The long-term benefits of regular exercise for older adults are compelling," says Mary Swanson,
founder of the SilverSneakers Fitness Program. "In addition to helping older adults remain physically
healthy, SilverSneakers also offers a great way for them to socialize, meet new friends and have fun."
Members also have the opportunity to take advantage of the national reciprocity feature of this program, which
allows access to any of the 2,400-plus participating fitness centers and class sites across the nation while
traveling.
SilverSneakers was designed specifically to encourage Medicare-eligible individuals to increase their levels of physical activity and motivate them to continue to be active. As of December 2006, the SilverSneakers program is offered in 42 states at no additional cost to nearly three million Medicare-eligible individuals through its national network.