Inclusive Fitness for Seniors: Driving Preventive Care and Member Engagement

Inclusive Fitness for Seniors: Driving Preventive Care and Member Engagement
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Rethinking Fitness: Why Older Adults Need a Different Approach

Many older adults want to stay active but feel shut out of traditional fitness spaces. Standard workouts often overlook the realities of aging bodies—joint pain, balance concerns, and chronic conditions. Studies from the CDC show that seniors with access to tailored movement programs experience fewer falls and greater independence.

For organizations serving this population, building fitness programs around accessibility isn’t just thoughtful—it’s strategic.

Barriers That Keep Older Adults From Moving More

Staying active is critical for healthy aging, but for many women and men over 60, it’s far from simple. Physical limitations, environmental factors, and even emotional barriers can make regular exercise feel out of reach. According to the World Health Organization, globally, 1 in 4 older adults does not meet recommended activity levels—often due to challenges beyond their control.

Here’s what holds many back:

  • Mobility Challenges – Arthritis, joint stiffness, and recovery from injuries can make even gentle movement intimidating.
  • Fear of Falling – Anxiety about balance and injury discourages participation in traditional gym or group fitness programs.
  • Programs That Don’t Fit – Many workouts are not designed for older adults’ unique needs, leaving them unsure how to modify movements safely.
  • Cost and Access Issues – Limited transportation, fixed incomes, and lack of nearby senior-friendly options create significant hurdles.
  • Low Confidence and Motivation – Without supportive, age-appropriate guidance, many older adults hesitate to begin or sustain a fitness routine.

These barriers contribute to inactivity, which in turn increases fall risks, chronic conditions, and healthcare utilization—driving up costs for Medicare Advantage plans, aging services, and community health programs.

Why Accessible Fitness Programs Are a Win for Organizations

For organizations serving older adults, fitness goes beyond movement—it empowers independence, reduces risk, and supports population health. Tailored programs meet the unique needs of aging communities while aligning with priorities like preventive care and cost management.

Here’s how Medicare Advantage plans, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), and community health programs benefit from offering fitness designed for seniors:

  • Cut Preventable Costs – Active older adults experience fewer falls, injuries, and hospitalizations, reducing the strain on healthcare resources.
  • Encourage Aging in Place – Strength and balance training supports independence, delaying or avoiding the need for long-term care services.
  • Increase Program Engagement – Wellness offerings that feel relevant and inclusive drive participation and boost member satisfaction scores.
  • Align With Preventive Care Goals – Regular physical activity helps manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
  • Provide Inclusive Options – Programs that include low-impact or seated classes ensure accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

By investing in fitness education tailored to older adults, organizations not only support healthier, happier communities but also achieve measurable outcomes that align with their mission and metrics.

GetSetUp’s Approach: Fitness That Meets Older Adults Where They Are

GetSetUp offers interactive, expert-led classes that make movement safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for older adults.

  • Built for All Abilities – From gentle strength training to yoga and tai chi, classes adapt to seniors’ mobility levels and comfort zones.
  • Inclusive Options – For those with limited mobility, Sit, Stretch, and Strengthen provides seated routines that boost flexibility and confidence.
  • Wellness Tracks for Organizations – Programs can combine Chair Yoga, Gentle Aerobics, and Stretching for Better Mobility into curated pathways for healthier aging.
  • Live and Social Learning – Peer-led sessions encourage participation and foster community, improving adherence and satisfaction.

With GetSetUp, organizations can embed these programs into their platforms—helping older adults stay strong and engaged while meeting critical preventive care objectives.

How to Get Started with GetSetUp

Implementing GetSetUp's programs to enhance the well-being of your members is a streamlined process:

Step 1: Select Programs Aligned with Member Needs: Identify and prioritize the programs that address your members' specific challenges and goals:

  • Digital and Health Literacy: Enhance members' understanding of technology and health information.
  • Fall Prevention: Provide strategies to reduce the risk of falls among older adults.
  • Chronic Disease Management: Support self-management of chronic conditions.
  • Independence and Self-Management: Promote skills that enable autonomous living.
  • Caregiving Support: Offer resources for those caring for loved ones.
  • Health Equity Programming: Ensure inclusive health education for all demographics.
  • Social Connectedness: Foster community to combat social isolation.
  • Mental Enrichment: Provide opportunities for cognitive stimulation and growth.

Step 2: Determine Integration Level : Choose how to incorporate GetSetUp into your existing infrastructure:

  • Hosted by GetSetUp: Utilize a dedicated URL and landing page managed by GetSetUp.
  • Embedded Integration: Seamlessly embed classes within your health plan's member portal for a cohesive user experience. Digital Health Platform for Active Agers

Step 3: Customize the Program for Your Organization: Tailor the offerings to reflect your organization's identity and meet member preferences:

  • Class Selection: Choose specific classes and determine the frequency to align with member interests.
  • Curated Series: Develop targeted class series that support your organization's priorities.
  • Engagement Tools: Implement notifications and reminders to encourage participation and discovery.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Incorporate surveys to gather member insights and assess satisfaction.
  • Multilingual Options: Offer classes in multiple languages to cater to diverse member populations.
  • Brand Integration: Apply your organization's branding, including colors and design elements, for a consistent look and feel.

Step 4: Experience a Live Demonstration: Collaborate with GetSetUp to create a mock-up of the customized platform:

  1. Review and Test: Assess the tailored platform to ensure it meets your expectations and member needs.
  2. Provide Feedback: Share insights to refine the platform for optimal engagement.

Schedule a Consultation: Contact GetSetUp to discuss implementation details and address any questions. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit GetSetUp Partner Page.

Bring GetSetUp to your organization

We partner with Medicare Advantage plans, dual eligible plans,  healthcare providers, Departments of Health & Human Services, Government aging services and more.