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 IBC 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 Keystone 65 Select HMO, Keystone 65
Preferred HMO, and Personal Choice 65
SM PPO 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.
SilverSneakersSM is a registered mark of
Healthways, Inc., an independent company.