April is National Move More Month: Get Moving with Medicare Advantage Plan Perks!

ebeuttel • April 17, 2025
Medicare Advantage plans

At Beuttel Insurance, we believe every month is a good time to prioritize your health—but April is officially recognized as National Move More Month , making it the perfect opportunity to talk about how Medicare Advantage plans can help you do just that.

In today’s world, it’s so easy to find ourselves sitting on the couch, mindlessly scrolling through social media or getting lost in an online game that promises “mental exercise.” And yes, keeping your brain active is important—but we can’t forget about our bodies. After all, we only get one! The good news? If you’re enrolled in or eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan , you might already have access to free or low-cost resources that can help you move more—without the added financial strain.

So, How Does Medicare Support Physical Wellness?

But how do you stay active when gym memberships and wellness classes can be costly—and often not covered by traditional insurance? That’s where your Medicare coverage comes into play. If you’re enrolled in or exploring options for a Medicare Advantage plan , you might be pleasantly surprised by the fitness and wellness perks included.

Before we dive into those exciting extras, let’s do a quick refresher on what Original Medicare actually covers—and where it may fall short when it comes to your overall wellness.

What Do Medicare Parts A & B Cover?

Original Medicare consists of two parts:

  • Part A (Hospital Insurance) : Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
  • Part B (Medical Insurance) : Covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

While this foundational coverage is essential, it doesn’t include extras like prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing—or fitness benefits like gym memberships or wellness classes. That’s where Medicare Advantage (Part C) comes in.

Why Choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan?

A Medicare Advantage plan is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. Offered by private insurance companies, these plans include everything Parts A and B cover— plus additional benefits .

Many Medicare Advantage plans bundle in:

  • Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
  • Routine dental, vision, and hearing services
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • Meal delivery after hospital stays
  • And of course… wellness benefits like fitness programs and gym memberships!

Let’s Talk Gym Perks!

One of the most popular Medicare Advantage perks is free or low-cost access to gym memberships and fitness programs .


Here’s what that can look like for you:


  • SilverSneakers®: Offered through major carriers like BlueShield, Cigna, Aetna, and Humana, this program gives you access to thousands of fitness centers nationwide. You can join group exercise classes, use gym equipment, and even enjoy virtual workouts from home.


  • Renew Active® (by UnitedHealthcare): This wellness program offers gym access, brain health programs, and fitness tracking.


  • Silver&Fit®: Available with some plans, offering gym memberships, on-demand workout videos, and healthy aging resources

These perks make it easier than ever to stay active without extra cost . Whether you love walking on a treadmill, dancing in Zumba, or stretching in yoga—there’s something for everyone.

When Can You Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Turning 65? Here’s What You Need to Know:

You can first apply for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) . This is a 7-month window :

  • It starts 3 months before your 65th birthday.
  • Includes your birthday month .
  • And ends 3 months after you turn 65.

During this time, you can enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and choose to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) that offers the kind of perks we mentioned above.

Already a Medicare Beneficiary?

There are specific times during the year when you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage plan:

  • Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
    October 15 – December 7
    You can switch plans, join a new plan, or return to Original Medicare.
  • Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period:
    January 1 – March 31
    You can switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare (with or without drug coverage).
  • Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs):
     Life happens—and sometimes that affects your coverage. If you move, lose other insurance , or experience another qualifying event, you may be eligible to switch your plan during a SEP. (Tip: You may qualify for multiple SEPs, depending on your situation.)

Not sure if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period? Give us a call and we can help you figure it out.

Why It’s Important to Know These Dates !

Your enrollment periods ensure that you get the coverage that best fits your needs. If you miss a window, you may face late enrollment penalties or a delay in getting the coverage you need. With various enrollment periods throughout the year, it’s always a good idea to stay on top of your options and be proactive about making changes.

Let’s Find the Right Plan for You

At Beuttel Insurance , we’re here to help you explore all your Medicare Advantage options. Whether you’re looking for a plan with strong prescription coverage, wellness perks, or access to programs like SilverSneakers , we’ll help you find the right fit.

This April , let’s get moving, stay active, and take care of ourselves— mind and body . We’re just a phone call away if you have questions or want to review your options.

If you’re looking for more information or need assistance enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, feel free to reach out to our team! We’re here to help guide you through your options, so you can stay active, healthy, and covered!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

3 Paths to Medicare

August 8, 2025
Knowing which path is right for you & when to act — can save you money & stress.
Summer sun safety ad with a straw hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses on a white grid, with the headline

Stay Sun-Safe This Summer: What Medicare Covers & How to Protect Yourself

By ebeuttel • July 18, 2025
July is UV Safety Awareness Month—a timely reminder for Medicare beneficiaries to stay informed about sun protection and understand what their plan covers. Learn what’s included in Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage when it comes to skin checks, eye exams, and preventive care, plus practical tips for enjoying the outdoors safely this summer. The post Stay Sun-Safe This Summer: What Medicare Covers & How to Protect Yourself appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
Slide:

Filling the Gaps: Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage for Medicare Beneficiaries

By Kayleen Popp • July 3, 2025
Looking for Medicare dental, vision, and hearing coverage? Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine care in these areas—but affordable options are available. Learn how Medicare Advantage plans and supplemental insurance can help you stay covered and avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses for dental work, eye exams, and hearing aids. The post Filling the Gaps: Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage for Medicare Beneficiaries appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
A woman in a white coat assists an elderly person in a wheelchair. Text:

How to Know When It’s Time for Memory Care or Assisted Living – And How to Talk About It

By ebeuttel • June 27, 2025
Deciding to move a parent or loved one into memory care or assisted living is never easy—but recognizing the signs early and having a thoughtful plan can make the transition smoother for everyone involved. In this blog, we share practical tips on how to identify when it may be time, how to approach the conversation with compassion, and what key steps to consider as you plan the move. From organizing legal and medical documents to choosing the right location and packing meaningful items, this guide is designed to help you take each step with clarity and confidence. Read the full blog for resources, checklists, and insight from someone who’s been there. The post How to Know When It’s Time for Memory Care or Assisted Living – And How to Talk About It appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
Man hiking through a field at sunset, text reads

Men’s Health Spotlight: How Medicare Can Help You Manage Gout

By ebeuttel • June 13, 2025
June is Men’s Health Month—and if you or a loved one has ever woken up with sudden, sharp pain in the big toe or another joint, gout could be the culprit. It’s a common but painful form of arthritis that affects many older men, often disrupting daily life and comfort. The good news? Medicare provides valuable support for diagnosing, treating, and managing gout. In this article, I’ll break down what causes gout, how to recognize it, and how Medicare can help you take control—so you can stay mobile, independent, and feeling your best. The post Men’s Health Spotlight: How Medicare Can Help You Manage Gout appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
Medicare travel coverage tips

Adventure Awaits—But Is Medicare Coming With You?

By ebeuttel • May 16, 2025
Planning a trip abroad? Don’t get caught without the right coverage! Many seniors are surprised to learn that Medicare doesn’t typically cover international travel, which is why exploring travel insurance for seniors is a must. If you're managing a pre-existing condition, understanding your Medicare travel coverage options can help you avoid unexpected costs and get peace of mind while overseas. In this blog, we cover what’s included, what’s not, and how to find the right travel insurance plan—especially if you're on Medicare Advantage or have a Medigap policy. Whether you’re preparing for a European cruise or a tropical getaway, make sure you're protected before you take off. The post Adventure Awaits—But Is Medicare Coming With You? appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
Medicare advantagep

When Your Medicare Advantage Plan Drops Your Doctor: What You Can Do Next

By ebeuttel • May 2, 2025
Many people are experiencing an unexpected drop in Medicare Advantage (MA) coverage — finding themselves without access to the care team they’ve trusted for years, often with little to no notice. This sudden change can be overwhelming, especially when your health depends on ongoing relationships with your primary doctor and specialists who understand your history. […] The post When Your Medicare Advantage Plan Drops Your Doctor: What You Can Do Next appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.
Med

Navigating Allergy Season: How Medicare Covers Testing, Treatments, and Prescription Costs

April 3, 2025
Managing allergies can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. This blog covers how Medicare helps with allergy testing, treatments, and prescription coverage under Part B and Part D. Learn what’s covered, potential out-of-pocket costs, and how to maximize your benefits for better allergy relief. The post Navigating Allergy Season: How Medicare Covers Testing, Treatments, and Prescription Costs appeared first on Beuttel Insurance.