Lions and tigers and bears...and fitness!

Carl and Patty Prince are “regulars” at the UPMC for Life walks at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. The zoo walks take place every other week from April through October and are one more way we add value to the lives of our Medicare members. In addition to comprehensive, high-quality medical coverage, UPMC for Life provides members with multiple opportunities to stay healthy, active, and fit throughout their lives.

“We saw that the walks were offered and knew it was something we’d enjoy. We’ve been to every walk so far this year. We like the change of scenery at the zoo — it’s a great place to walk,” says Patty.

The Princes, who are committed to staying active in retirement, walk together every day. “In winter we walk at the mall. The only day we missed was the time of the big snow,” says Patty. Carl and Patty recently enrolled in UPMC for Life and look forward to participating in other activities offered by the plan. “We are very satisfied with all of the benefits we get with UPMC for Life,” adds Patty.

In the photo above:
Patty and Carl Prince, UPMC for Life Members

UPMC for Life members who attend the zoo walks receive complimentary admission for themselves and a Medicare-eligible guest. Most weeks, Kristi Festa, a UPMC for Life Community Relations Coordinator, greets members as they enter the zoo, offers them a bottle of water, and then leads them on the walk. Members are free to walk with the group or on their own. After the walk, members and their guests may stay at the zoo to enjoy the exhibits.

“Many of the regulars know me and greet me by name,” says Kristi. “It’s nice to develop personal relationships with the people who come on these walks. If a scheduling conflict keeps me from attending a walk — which rarely happens — I really miss it.” Kristi has attended the UPMC for Life zoo walks since they began three years ago, and she has seen participation grow each year. “The number of regular walkers has increased, as well as the total number of participants,” she explains. “We average 60 to 70 walkers each week. “So many of our members comment on how much they enjoy these walks and how much they appreciate this opportunity,” continues Kristi. “They say it gives them a reason to get up and get moving.”

On some weeks, the zoo offers the group special “behind-the-scenes” events. Walk participants may get to meet the lion keeper or the penguin keeper or take a guided tour of the Tropical Forest.

On other weeks, representatives from Silver&Fit™, the fitness program offered by UPMC for Life, lead the group in exercises or join the walk and answer questions about the benefits Silver&Fit membership provides. Through the Silver&Fit program, our UPMC for Life members receive free membership at select fitness facilities, including participation in classes and social activities, or the option of a home fitness program.

UPMC for Life is dedicated to providing high value to our Medicare members by offering a range of product options and extra benefits that help improve health, fitness, and quality of life.