Stop overloading older adults with Medicare plan choices

Overwhelming Medicare Plan Choices for Older Adults

Older adults in the US are faced with an overwhelming number of Medicare plan options, making it difficult for them to make informed decisions. Approximately 69 million Americans, either disabled or 65 and older, rely on Medicare for health insurance.

Most beneficiaries must choose a private insurance plan to receive comprehensive medical benefits, prescription drug coverage, or supplemental coverage. During the upcoming eight-week enrollment period, they will be inundated with mail from insurance companies, urging them to switch plans for 2026.

Switching plans could save beneficiaries hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars per year, depending on changes to their insurer's plan and their own coverage needs.

However, a KFF survey found that nearly 7 in 10 Medicare beneficiaries did not compare plans for their 2022 coverage, suggesting that most will not switch or explore better options. As a result, many may miss out on potential cost savings.

Author's summary: Older adults are overwhelmed by Medicare plan choices.

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STAT STAT — 2025-10-15

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