People naturally lose flexibility and strength as they age. But there are ways for everybody, seniors included, to stay as fit as they possibly can.

SilverSneakers, a popular fitness program for seniors, is a way to stay healthy. Unfortunately for some, changes in insurance policies means that SilverSneakers is no longer covered under their plans. SilverSneakers has been dropped by UnitedHealthcare for its Medicare Advantage plan holders as well for AARP Medicare Supplement plan holders. The good news is that there are still options for seniors to participate in SilverSneakers and other programs offered at NYA Sports & Fitness.

Effective January 1, UnitedHealthcare replaced SilverSneakers with Renew Active (for Medicare Advantage Plan holders), and AARP Medicare Supplement Plan holders can take advantage of a special monthly rate of $17, half the regular cost for senior membership at NYA, according to NYA Sports & Fitness director of membership and fitness Amanda Meador, explaining that NYA’s SilverSneakers programs are covered by Renew Active.

“We don’t require that you be a SilverSneakers member to take a SilverSneakers class. At the same time, you are not limited to SilverSneakers classes if you are in fact a SilverSneakers member. Group fitness classes are open to all members, no matter how you attain your membership,” Ms Meador said.

“I think it’s one of the best things insurance companies can offer because its preventative,” said Sharon Salling, who takes the SilverSneakers Circuit class.

There are approximately 2,400 eligible UnitedHealthcare members within a ten-mile radius of the NYA that will be eligible for one of the two programs effective January 1, Ms Meador said.

NYA’s SilverSneakers Circuit class is offered Mondays from noon to 1 pm.  SilverSneakers Classic is held at NYA on Wednesdays from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm .

Chairs are used, when needed, for balance and support in these classes.

According to silversneakers.com, SilverSneakers helps millions of people on Medicare defy the odds, shatter stereotypes, and answer every challenge with, “I can do this.”

For some, it just might require either spending a little more money or shopping around for new insurance coverage.

For the full length article, see the January 11 print edition of the paper. Subscribe at https://classadz.vdata.com/NewtownCTCirc/SelectOption.aspx