Nashville, TN — HealthSpring and the Nashville Zoo recently announced they will present the eighth Senior Day at the Zoo to allow seniors ages 65 and older free admission to the Zoo on Friday, May 11, 2012, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Additionally, seniors will receive a $3 coupon that can be used for purchases at the Zoo's food and retail locations.

The young and young-at-heart can also enjoy rides on the Wild Animal Carousel, visits to Lorikeet Landing and an adventure through the Zoo's limited engagement exhibit, DinoTrek (additional fees apply). Visitors will have an opportunity to enjoy games, prizes, entertainment and attend informational sessions. Zoo keepers will also be on hand to present educational talks at various animal exhibits throughout the day.

"HealthSpring is very pleased to once again offer seniors a chance to experience a free day at the Nashville Zoo," said Greg Allen, president of HealthSpring of Tennessee. "We are always looking for ways to support both the community and our members; this great event achieves that aim by encouraging seniors to be healthy and active by enjoying the sights of our local zoo."

Guests will be treated to a rousing performance featuring HealthSpring Silver Stars at a concert from 11 a.m. until noon in the Jungle Terrace. Performing on Senior Day at the Zoo will be trumpeter David Balph, 2011 Silver Star winner, and blues/gospel singer and guitarist Rev. Robert Shipp, 2010 Silver Star winner. Silver Stars is a talent competition designed by HealthSpring specifically for people age 60+ (www.hssilverstars.com). Information about the 2012 Silver Stars talent competition will be available at a booth at the Zoo.

A free "Basics of Medicare" educational seminar will be held from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Croft Building. Additionally, seniors will be able to obtain information about other relevant health topics at designated booths onsite.

"We are excited to continue our partnership with HealthSpring to offer Senior Day at the Zoo," says Jim Bartoo, marketing and public relations director for Nashville Zoo. "A day at the Zoo is enjoyable for people of all ages, and this is a great opportunity to share all the Zoo has to offer with Nashville's valued senior community."

Senior Day at the Zoo is the result of a partnership between Nashville Zoo and HealthSpring. There is a $5 parking fee per vehicle.