Vote for the SilverSneakers Member of the Year Award

Each year SilverSneakers honors a SilverSneakers member who has improved their life through a healthy lifestyle that incorporates physical activity while inspiring and motivating others along the way. The Member of the Year Award was established in memory of SilverSneakers founder Mary Swanson’s father, who served as the inspiration for the nationally acclaimed program.

Vote for a PSERS member!

Thomas Laffey is a member of the Pennsylvania Public School Employees' Retirement System—and he has been nominated to win for 2022! You have until August 14 to vote. Vote today!

Thomas Laffey is a retired school psychologist, who has been living with Alzheimer’s for the past seven years. It affects his memory as well as his speech and understanding. Before the pandemic, Tom volunteered at a local memory unit because he wanted to be able to help others who were struggling with the same issues he is facing. He is no longer able to volunteer, but he continues to be active and social. He ran multiple times a week until about six months ago, and only retired from doubles tennis a few months ago. The highlight of his week is using his Silver Sneakers membership to enjoy working out at the Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley under the guidance of a personal trainer. This physical activity has helped maintain strength, balance and coordination while also improving his mood and helping him sleep. Throughout his life, he has embodied the desire to serve family, friends, and community, and to maintain the highest level of health he can. Despite his diagnosis and its limitations, Tom continues to have a positive attitude toward people and life.

Join SilverSneakers

SilverSneakers is available to members enrolled in the HOP Medical Plan or the HOP Pre-65 Medical Plan. Health Options Program members enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may also have access to a wellness program. Contact the Medicare Advantage plan directly, or visit SilverSneakers.com for more information. Always consult with your physician before beginning a physical activity program.