Staying fit is important to your mental and physical wellbeing, no matter what your age. But, for seniors, neglecting your health and fitness can have even greater risks and consequences. Many health challenges tend to increase as we age. This can be true even if maintain a healthy lifestyle in our younger years.
According to the National Council on Aging, here are some of the scary statistics about senior health risks:
- Approximately 80% of older adults have at least one chronic disease
- Diabetes affects 23% of older adults
- 90% of older adults are at risk for developing high blood pressure
- Depression impacts 7 million older adults
If you’re a senior, you may be able to take advantage of added benefits through a Medicare supplement plan that can help prevent health problems down the road. But, does Medicare cover gym memberships, weight loss and more?
The Price We Pay for Neglecting Our Health
Although there are many possible conditions and diseases that often affect older adults, there are also ways to substantially lower your risks for developing many of these. 75% of every dollar for healthcare is spent on treatment for chronic diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. However, with the proper precautions, these risks can be reduced. In fact, people might even prevent many of the chronic diseases mentioned above with pro-active measures. Some of the things that can lower your risk of chronic disease include diet and exercise, healthcare visits, vaccines, and avoiding tobacco. But, while prevention plays a huge factor in one’s long-term health, little emphasis tends to be placed on preventative care. These facts stress the importance of taking control of your own health. You can do this by educating yourself on preventative care, and taking advantage of benefits that are offered through your health insurance plan.
Benefits That May Lower Your Health Risks as You Age
If you’re interested in staying healthy for as long as possible (and who isn’t?), then your insurance plan may be able to help you achieve a healthy lifestyle. Many insurance plans offer discounted or free preventative services to seniors. However, oftentimes, these benefits are not well known among clients. If your insurance plan does not offer health and fitness benefits, you may be eligible for a supplemental plan that provides this coverage. Some supplemental plans cover services for weight control, gym memberships, and other fitness benefits. You can start by reviewing the insurance plan that you have currently and checking to find any benefits that they may offer to seniors. For example, CBS News reports that both Medicare and Medicaid cover weight loss surgery for candidates that meet certain requirements. There are additional possibilities available for patients with Medicare as well. Supplement plans or add-ons are a popular way to get extra benefits added to your coverage.
Does Medicare Cover Gym Memberships?
Medicare A and B, also known as “original Medicare”, won’t cover any of the costs associated with a gym membership or fitness program. There are some types of supplemental or add-on plans that may offer Medicare recipients additional benefits. But, since you will be paying more for these types of plans, you might wonder, “Are Medicare supplement plans worth it?”. Medicare Advantage and Medigap are two additional offerings that may help you get the coverage you desire. However, you should be aware that not all supplemental plans cover gym memberships or fitness plans. In order to find out if a service is covered under Medicare Advantage or Medigap, you will need to contact the provider of the services directly. They can help you understand exactly which types of services and benefits are offered through their products. It might be that you find a provider who offers extra advantages with these plans, such as a gym membership. You should know that there may be providers who offer the same types of plans, but the plans’ benefits are different. Don’t make the mistake of assuming everyone who offers Medicare Advantage or Medigap will include the same client benefits. Make sure that you research exactly what you are getting when you sign up for any type of health coverage. Then, you can determine if it’s worth the price you will pay to receive these services.
Weighing Your Options
If you find an affordable Medicare supplement plan that offers what you are looking for, there’s a good chance that it will be worth your consideration. Private gym memberships and fitness programs can be expensive. These services can easily cost thousands of dollars per year for participants. A Medicare option may be more affordable than if you were to pay the standard price for a local gym or fitness program. Another option is to join a web-based health and fitness program. You can work with an online health coach to find a regimen that’s right for you. An internet support network can be just as effective in meeting your health goals without leaving the comfort of your home. Some community centers, churches, and local businesses offer free or reduced services to seniors who live in their area. There is always a way to stay in shape if you are willing to work for it. Even without the gym or a special fitness program, you can coordinate group exercise sessions with friends, take a walk at your local park, and make use of free events and amenities throughout your city.
Get Started Living Your Best Life Today!
Are you ready to take control of your health? If you want to live a healthier lifestyle and don’t know where to start, we’ve got good news. Check out our website to access budget-savvy workout routines, healthy recipes and much more today!
