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SilverSneakers Changes the Lives of More Than 2,000 Presbyterian Health Plan Members

Posted on: Tuesday, 3 April 2007, 09:00 CDT

In three months, more than 2,000 Presbyterian Health Plan members have been working to change their lives and improve their health by embracing the SilverSneakers Fitness Program, the nation's leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. SilverSneakers offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control over their health. The program is being offered at no additional cost beyond the monthly premium to members of Presbyterian MediCare PPO and Presbyterian Senior Care.

"The long-term health benefits of regular exercise for senior adults are compelling. In addition to helping seniors stay physically healthy, SilverSneakers also offers a great way for them to socialize, meet new friends and have fun," stated Mary Swanson, who founded the popular group exercise program nearly 15 years ago.

SilverSneakers, a product of Healthways, is a unique program specifically designed for Medicare beneficiaries' unique health and physical needs. Eligible members can receive a basic membership at any participating fitness center, where they can enjoy specialized SilverSneakers fitness classes focusing on improving strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Certified SilverSneakers fitness instructors teach the classes, and in addition to the classes, participants can also enjoy other fitness center membership amenities, including use of exercise equipment (e.g., treadmills, exercise bikes, etc.), weight training, circuit training and other fitness offerings (e.g., aerobics, social events).

Additionally, each fitness center has a specially trained Senior AdvisorSM to assist members in utilizing fitness center resources and classes. A unique reciprocity agreement also allows SilverSneakers members the opportunity to visit any participating fitness centers and class sites across the nation when they travel.

The unique SilverSneakers Steps is offered to MediCare PPO and Senior Care members residing more than fifteen miles away from a participating Fitness Center. "Steps" is a self-directed exercise program incorporating walking and other recreational activities with the goal of increasing members' physical activity levels. Because the program is not limited to one activity, members enjoy flexibility in reaching their fitness and wellness goals.

To enroll in SilverSneakers, members are asked to go to a participating fitness center and show their Presbyterian ID card. Fitness center staff will assist with enrollment and provide a tour of the location.

For more information regarding the SilverSneakers Fitness Program and a complete list of participating fitness centers, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 1-800-295-4993.

About The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program

The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is offered by Healthways, an industry leader providing specialized, comprehensive Health and Care SupportSM solutions to help people maintain or improve their health. Founded in 1992, SilverSneakers is the nation's leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults and offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially-oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control of their health. The unique program is available at no additional cost to eligible Medicare members and is currently offered in 49 states at more than 2,500 fitness centers and class sites. For more information on SilverSneakers, call 480.783.9555 or visit www.silversneakers.com.

Source: Business Wire

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