According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults in the United States are at an increased risk for depression, possibly due to the fact that depression is more common in people who also have other illnesses or limited function. Health care providers and sometimes older adults themselves may mistake symptoms of depression as a natural reaction to illness or life changes that tend to occur with age, and the individuals may not realize they could feel better with appropriate treatment.¹ Symptoms of depression that may not be recognized immediately are unusual sleep patterns — insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping. While other health conditions or some medications may cause sleep disorders, insufficient sleep is associated with the onset of depression and also poses important implications for its management and outcome.² Managing depression may result in healthier sleep habits, and getting appropriate amounts of quality sleep may help prevent or manage symptoms of depression. Individuals may be able to both manage depressive symptoms and improve poor sleep through regular physical activity. Research shows that regular exercise positively affects mental health by releasing more endorphins ("feel good" neurotransmitters), reducing the risk of depression and creating a better mood.³ Regular activity also improves energy levels. While it may seem counter-intuitive to individuals' ability to sleep better, studies have shown that activity actually helps reduce fatigue and promotes better sleep.⁴

SilverSneakers^® can help

There's good news for your AmeriHealth Medicare-eligible patients: The Healthways SilverSneakers^® Fitness Program provides them opportunities to get the physical activity they need to help combat depression and promote healthy sleep habits. In addition, the program is provided for them at no cost as part of their health plan benefits.

Enrollment is fast and easy

Recommend SilverSneakers today as a resource for your older adult patients who may struggle with depression and/or sleep issues. SilverSneakers offers three easy ways to enroll:

• In person. To enroll in the program, members can simply bring their SilverSneakers ID card to any participating SilverSneakers location. Members can visit the SilverSneakers website or call 1-888-423-4632 for a complete list of locations and/or request a replacement card.
• Online. Eligible members can enroll online at www.silversneakers.com/member. Enrollment gives members access to several resources, including health improvement plans and video demonstrations.
• SilverSneakers Steps. Enroll in a personalized fitness program that is designed for members who do not have convenient access to a SilverSneakers location. It offers a tool kit and "how-to" materials to help members get fit. Members can call 1-888-423-4632 (TTY: 711) for more information.

Note: SilverSneakers is offered to AmeriHealth 65^® NJ HMO and AmeriHealth 65^® Preferred HMO members at no cost. For more information on the program, members can visit www.silversneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., EST.

¹ http://cdc.gov/aging/men talhealth/depression.htm

² http://cdc.gov/sleep

³ Strawbridge, W.J., Deleger, S., Roberts, R.E., & Kaplan, G.A. (2002). Physical activity reduces the risk of subsequent depression for older adults. American Journal of Epidemiology, 156(4), 328-334. Rethorst, C.D., Wipfli, B.M., & Landers, D.M. (2009). The antidepressive effects of exercise: A meta-analysis of randomized trials. Sports Medicine, 39(6), 491-511. Ruscheweyh, R., Willemer, C., Kruger, K., Duning, T., Warnecke, T., Sommer, J., Volker, K., Ho, H.V., Mooren, F., & Knecht, S. (2011). Physical activity and memory functions: An interventional study. Neurobiology of Aging, 32(7), 1304-1319.

⁴ Puetz, T.W. (2006). Physical activity and feelings of energy and fatigue: Epidemiological evidence. Sports Medicine, 36(9), 767-780. University of Georgia. "Regular Exercise Plays a Consistent and Significant Role in Reducing Fatigue." ScienceDaily, November 1, 2006. Web. April 20, 2012.

SilverSneakers^SM is a registered mark of Healthways, Inc.