Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program Seeks Nominations

For Priscilla Farrell, it was to walk on the beach with her granddaughter and to rely less on an oxygen tank. For Gwen-Laurie Isaac, it was to lower cholesterol and stop taking blood pressure medication. For Andreas and Johanna Niewold, it was to increase their physical and social activities. For these members and every member of Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program, there is a story - a story of determination, strength, camaraderie and fun.

Healthways is now accepting nominations for the 2012 Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award, which pays tribute to a SilverSneakers member whose healthy behavior has made a difference in his or her own life while motivating others. The Swanson Award is in memory of SilverSneakers founder Mary Swanson’s father, who served as the inspiration for the nationally acclaimed fitness program. The award honors five finalists across the U.S., and one of the five is selected as the national award recipient.

“Through its innovative design, SilverSneakers provides older adults with a fun, energizing program that helps them retain their independence by taking greater control of their health,” said Debbie James, vice president of Healthways. “For every inspiring story we’ve heard from our SilverSneakers members through Swanson Award nominations over the past seven years, we know there are many more. Whether it’s a story of weight loss or increased mobility or someone who brings a group together for monthly social luncheons, we want to hear about it.”

The award-winning SilverSneakers Fitness Program increases physical activity in older adults, resulting in higher well-being and lower healthcare costs. The program engages participants in active behavior change through access to a variety of fitness center venues and senior-specific programming that incorporates physical activity and social experiences. SilverSneakers is available to nearly 9 million Medicare beneficiaries through many Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement carriers, and group retiree plans. The Healthways fitness center network offers convenient access to more than 15,000 participating fitness and wellness facilities nationwide.

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