The YMCA of the North did not request or approve any changes and, like our members, we learned of them with little notice. We remain fully contracted and will continue to offer the YMCA benefit to ForeverWell (senior) members through several health plan partners.

We Did Not Request Any Recent Changes

The YMCA of the North did not ask to end any of our senior fitness partnerships. We were notified of these insurance changes without prior warning, and we are currently fulfilling an active contract for 2025. The decision to remove YMCA locations from certain 2026 plans was made solely by the insurance carriers. Some members have been told to “call back in December” or that contracts are pending. This is misinformation. We encourage members to review their 2026 options closely, so they can choose a plan that includes YMCA access.

Questions? Call your insurance provider. 

What’s Changing for 2026?

Some health insurance providers have updated the benefits included in their 2026 Medicare plans. This may affect whether your YMCA branch is included as a fitness benefit next year.

The YMCA does not manage these insurance changes. Our goal is to make sure you have the information you need to choose a plan that supports your health and wellbeing.

Maintain Access to Your YMCA

We’re here to help you navigate these changes and continue receiving the support you’ve come to value.  

If you are impacted by recent Medicare plan changes impacting your YMCA of the North membership benefit for 2026, please stop into your local YMCA to learn about converting your membership to a special offer – or to another membership option if it fits your needs better. Our team will provide you with individual support to find the best option for you.

Note: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP) is open Jan 1 - Mar 31 (Q1) and allows for limited, one-time adjustments for enrollees seeking to switch plans after coverage starts.

Which Plans Currently Include the YMCA in 2026?

Coverage varies by plan and not all plans offered include the Y. It is important to check directly with your provider to confirm your eligibility for your specific 2026 plan. 

Summary of Changes

2025

  • No changes.
  • Your YMCA membership continues to be covered for the remainder of 2025 if it is part of your current plan.
  • Review your 2026 election and ensure your plan includes the YMCA. If you find it does not, see note above about options for maintaining access to the Y.

2026

  • The YMCA will continue accepting eligible senior fitness benefit plans in 2026.
  • Some insurance providers have made updates to their 2026 networks, and not all plans will continue to include YMCA locations.
  • Coverage will vary by plan so check with provider to confirm.
  • Note:  Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP) is open Jan 1 - Mar 31 (Q1) and allows for limited, one-time adjustments for enrollees seeking to switch plans after coverage starts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some insurance providers have updated what they cover for 2026.

These decisions were made by the insurance companies—not the YMCA.

No. The YMCA continues to offer the SilverSneakers and Medicare fitness benefits for participating health plans.

As of now: Allina Health | Aetna, HealthPartners, Humana, Medica, and UnitedHealthcare offer certain plans that include YMCA benefits in 2026.

Not each of their plans do, so always check your specific plan with your provider.

Not necessarily.

Plans vary widely, even within the same insurance company.

Please confirm with your provider.

You don’t have to, but you may choose to switch if your current plan no longer includes YMCA benefits for 2026.

There is a limited Medicare Advantage open enrollment period from Jan. 1 to March 31, 2026. This is a limited, one-time adjustment window for people already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. Eligible individuals may switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or drop MA and return to Original Medicare (with Part D) once.

If you are eligible for this special enrollment, please carefully review your 2026 health plan selections to ensure that your primary YMCA branch and YMCA of the North remain included in your chosen plan.

We understand not everyone is able to make a change to their plan and we’re here to help you find a way to continue to access the Y.

YMCA staff cannot recommend or select insurance plans.

Your insurance provider will have the most accurate information about your option.

If working with an agent, be sure they are looking into your specific plan and clarifying your local Y as an eligible location for the fitness benefit.  

Yes. The YMCA of the North continues to accept SilverSneakers benefits in 2026 for participating plans.

You can contact your insurance provider directly. 

Yes. The YMCA of the North continues to accept eligible senior fitness benefit plans.

However, some insurance providers have updated their 2026 plan offerings, and not all plans will continue to include the YMCA in their fitness benefit networks. Coverage will vary by plan.

Need Help? We’re Here for You.

We know insurance changes can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make sure you have every opportunity to continue enjoying the health, wellbeing, and community experiences that matter to you. If you have questions or need help understanding where to start, contact us or visit your local branch.

Thank you for being part of the YMCA community.