Senior Wellness Programs

All of us at Benefits by Design Insurance Services are dedicated to helping you explore your wellness program options.

What are Senior Wellness Programs for Medicare Beneficiaries?

As Medicare-eligible people age, maintaining overall wellness becomes increasingly important. Medicare itself does not provide comprehensive coverage specifically labeled as "senior wellness programs." However, several aspects of Medicare and related programs offer services that can contribute to overall senior wellness. 

Programs focusing on holistic health, preventive care, and quality of life improvements can support physical, mental, and emotional well-being for seniors. Here’s a closer look at the wellness programs available and how they can benefit Medicare beneficiaries.

Medicare Part B (Medical) Senior Wellness Programs

Medicare Part B covers a range of outpatient services that are crucial for senior wellness, including:

• Annual Wellness Visits: Medicare Part B covers annual wellness appointments with providers.
• Preventive Services: Part B covers various preventive services:
• Depression Screening: Covers annual depression screenings in a primary care setting, including further diagnostic testing and treatment.
• Mental Health Counseling and Psychotherapy: Covers outpatient mental health services, including counseling and psychotherapy sessions provided by licensed professionals such as psychologists, clinical social workers, and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
• Obesity Counseling: Covers counseling to help manage obesity, including diet and exercise counseling.
• Screenings: Covers screenings for conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, which are critical for early detection and management.
• Smoking Cessation Counseling: Covers services to help seniors quit smoking, which is a crucial aspect of preventive health.

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) Senior Wellness Programs

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies and often include additional benefits beyond those covered by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Many Medicare Advantage plans provide:

• Extended Mental Health Coverage: Covers expanded mental health services, such as more extensive therapy options, additional counseling sessions, and sometimes holistic approaches to mental wellness.
• Fitness Programs: Covers memberships to gyms, fitness centers, and group fitness classes like yoga or water aerobics.
• Vision and Dental Coverage: Covers routine vision and dental care.
• Wellness Programs: Covers additional wellness services such as nutrition counseling, weight management programs, and even home safety evaluations.

When Senior Wellness Programs Become Available

Once you choose your Medicare plan, make sure you find out what Wellness benefits are included as part of your health plan or as a discount program.