Manley Introduces Proposal to Cover Fitness Memberships for Seniors

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois seniors covered by certain health insurance policies and managed care plans will be able to have their basic fitness center membership costs covered by their insurance under a new bill introduced by state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet.

“As a dedicated advocate for older adults in our community and across Illinois, I am deeply committed to providing our seniors with the tools and resources they need to remain healthy,” Manley said. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exercise can prevent or delay many health problems that come with age and lead to better mental health outcomes. By having insurance policies cover fitness center membership costs, we are providing older adults with affordable, accessible ways to improve their health and overall quality of life.”

Manley’s House Bill 2445 requires individual and group accident and health insurance policies and managed care plans provide coverage for basic fitness center membership costs for individuals 65 years of age or older. The measure was inspired by Manley’s visit to a local senior center in Romeoville.

“Many older adults live on a fixed income and cannot afford a fitness center membership, so they miss out on the physical, mental, and social benefits that come with regular exercise. This bill is a common sense solution to this widespread problem and will benefit seniors statewide,” Manley said. “Balance, flexibility, and strength training are critical to a long, healthy life.”

House Bill 2445 awaits consideration by the Illinois House of Representatives. For more information on Manley’s legislation, please visit www.ilga.gov.