Tennessee YMCA Ends Program That Offered Free Access to Older Adults

The Tennessee YMCA has terminated its relationship with the Silver Sneakers Medicare fitness program, which means the end of a free fitness program offered to thousands of seniors statewide, reports WREG-TV . Silver Sneakers says over 10,000 seniors will be affected throughout Tennessee, including many in rural regions. A Silver Sneakers spokesperson notes the partnership will continue with more than 1,500 other YMCAs across the United States. According to Tennessee State Alliance of YMCAs Executive Director Ted Cornelius, the "short-term impact of the split will be much easier to weather than a long-term relationship with Silver Sneakers, which would impair the Y's ability to serve seniors, children, and families." Silver Sneakers members will still be able to access Planet Fitness, Gold's Gym, and other fitness options for free, but the organization is worried about those with limited options.