As a physician, your older adult patients look to you for guidance about their health care. But even the most experienced medical practitioner can find it challenging to inspire an unmotivated patient to exercise. Perhaps it?s just as easy as telling them to take a walk! There are many benefits of walking, and for your sedentary patients, anything is better than being a "couch potato." If you?re having trouble motivating your older patients to adopt a regular physical activity routine, try by informing them that walking is the easiest and simplest activity to do. In fact, the American Heart Association (AHA) encourages walking, citing it as the most effective form of exercise when it comes to achieving heart health. Your older adult patients might be surprised to know that a daily 30-minute stroll can actually improve their heart health. Besides, what other physical activity is easier than walking? There are no gym membership fees or start-up costs, and according to the AHA, it has the lowest dropout rate of any type of exercise. For your older adult patients who need more convincing to spend less time sitting and more time in an upright, forward motion, share with them that walking also can help improve their memory and improves circulation, which creates better blood flow to the brain. Your older adult patients will be glad to know that walking, a basic function they learned as children, can benefit them well into their golden years.

SilverSneakers^® can help

With all the benefits from a simple exercise as easy as walking, think of how your patients will benefit from other physical activities. AmeriHealth Medicare Advantage HMO members have access to the SilverSneakers Fitness Program and can explore a number of options, including group exercise classes that focus on improving balance, flexibility, endurance, range of movement, and other vital functions. Whether taking a brisk walk in the park, a stroll around the neighborhood, or timing a couple of miles on the treadmill at their local SilverSneakers-participating location, the health of your older adult patients will benefit from walking. Note: SilverSneakers is offered to AmeriHealth 65^® NJ HMO members at no cost. To enroll in the program, members can simply bring their SilverSneakers ID card to any participating SilverSneakers location. For a complete list of locations, members can visit the SilverSneakers website or call 1-888-423-4632.

This is not a statement of benefits. Benefits may vary based on Federal requirements, Benefits Program (HMO, PPO, etc.), and/or employer groups. Providers should call Customer Service for the member?s applicable benefits information. Members should be instructed to call the Customer Service telephone number listed on their ID card.
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