Posted by As an elderly person in your late 50s seeking to safeguard yourself from various health issues, one of your best bets should be to consider health insurance for 55 and older individuals.
This is because these insurance firms provide adequate coverage plans that are tailored toward older people whose immune systems have become less strong than they used to be.
Using the United States as a case study, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made a publication, stating that illness generally increases with age.
They also went ahead to show how age plays a major factor in the health of an individual. Let’s check below to see what their data is saying.
Below are some statistics that the CDC released on the rate of illness for people aged 55 and older:
- People age 65 and older are four times more likely to have a chronic condition than people under age 65.
- Nearly half of people age 65 and older have at least two chronic conditions.
- People age 65 and older account for 80% of all hospitalizations in the United States.
- The average cost of healthcare for people age 65 and older is three times higher than for people under age 65.
With the above information, you can see that the older you get, the weaker you become and the more susceptible you are to different sicknesses.
As an elderly, it is very important to purchase health insurance so as to help you stay healthy and save you some costs when it comes to paying medical bills.
There are a number of insurance companies that are available to elderly individuals but before we get there, let’s check out this government-funded health insurance for the aged, known as Medicare.
What is Medicare?
You’ve probably heard about Medicare but don’t really grasp what it’s really about. Don’t worry, that’s why you have us.
Medicare is a type of health insurance that is sponsored by the government for people who are 65 or older or have certain disabilities.
It is a type of insurance that helps cover the cost of medical care, such as doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and even prescription drugs.
This insurance is free for many elders, this is because they have already paid their taxes, so their medical costs are somehow deducted from there.
Types of Medicare Plans
The following are the types of Medicare plans:
Medicare Advantage Plans
The Medicare Advantage plans, also known as type c are offered by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare.
They offer additional benefits, such as dental, vision, or hearing coverage. If you want to make the most out of this plan, then you have to make use of their network of providers.
Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medicare Supplement Insurance plans, also known as Medigap, are also offered by private insurance companies.
They help in the payment of some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, these include copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Medicare Part D
Let’s talk about Medicare Part D, which is prescription drug coverage. This plan is offered by private insurance companies, and you can choose a plan that best meets your needs.
We hope you are following us so far. Let’s now see the various insurance for elderly persons.
Health Insurance For 55 And Older
The following is the list of health insurance for persons between 55 and above:
- AARP
- Cigna
- Humana
- UnitedHealthcare
- WellCare
- Kaiser Permanente
- Aetna
- Molina Healthcare
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Centene.
Overview of Health Insurance for the Elderly
1. AARP
AARP, which stands for the American Association of Retired Persons is an organization that aims to provide insurance coverage for the elderly. It offers offers Medicare supplement insurance, also known as Medigap.
There are some costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, so Medigap takes care of those medical costs which include deductibles, copayments, etc. AARP offers a variety of Medigap plans, with extensive coverage.
It’s important for you to know that AARP is not an insurance company, rather, it is an organization that partners with insurance companies to provide quality insurance plans for persons aged 55 and above.
VISIT2. Cigna
Are you 55 years or older? Here is another health insurance provider on our list, which provides an insurance plan for your age.
Their vast number of doctors and hospitals cannot go unnoticed. Due to the large number of doctors they have, it’s very easy for them to assign a unique doctor to you for your specific medical issue.
VISIT3. Humana
This is one of the largest American healthcare companies that specializes in providing health insurance, healthcare services, and even wellness programs.
They have a program that rewards you for your healthy behavior such as working out, eating healthy, etc. And it is called Go365.
VISIT4. UnitedHealthcare
Another popular health insurance plan is UnitedHealthcare. It offers a wide range of plans for people aged 55 and older.
This firm has a special program for their customers which is known as Optum. It is geared towards the provision of different wellness services.
Also, they have a program known as Optum, which offers a variety of wellness services, such as virtual doctor visits, fitness tracking, and online resources.
VISIT5. WellCare
This is another popular health insurance provider for people aged 55 and older. WellCare’s plans focus on helping people stay healthy, with their various programs which offer rewards for healthy activities.
They have a huge online presence and have competitive plans.
VISIT6. Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente has proven to be one of the largest and most reliable insurance companies over the years.
With over 12 million members, they have a unique health insurance company that operates as both an insurer and a healthcare provider.
This means that Kaiser Permanente customers have access to a large network of doctors and hospitals.
They also have access to a variety of other services, such as pharmacy, vision, and dental care. Kaiser Permanente is known for its high quality of care and its focus on preventive health.
VISIT7. Aetna
Aetna is a publicly traded company and it is headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut. This health insurance competes as one of the best in the United States and the world at large.
It offers a wide number of insurance plans, including traditional health insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid plans.
Aetna is also known for its large network of doctors and hospitals, as well as its wellness and preventive care programs.
VISIT8. Molina Healthcare
Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries can have easy access to this health insurance. It is one of the largest Medicaid insurers in the United States, with over 4.4 million members.
As an elderly individual, this is one of the health insurance firms out there that provides the best insurance plans for their members.
They have their headquarters in Long Beach, California.
VISIT9. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
This is one of the largest for-profit managed healthcare companies in the world. Anthem BCBS is known for its competitive rates and its wide range of health insurance plans, including HMOs, PPOs, and Medicare plans.
It serves millions of members across the country and offers a variety of health insurance plans to meet the needs of individuals and families.
VISIT10. Centene
Ever since this health insurance was founded, it has grown to become one of the largest Medicaid providers.
Centene also offers health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, and has a presence in different locations.
In addition to its core business of providing health insurance, Centene also offers a variety of other services, including pharmacy benefit management, behavioral health, and long-term care.
We have discussed and provided you with important info about health insurance for the elderly. You may probably have some questions or concerns that you may want to discuss with us. In that case, we advise that you use the comment section.
VISITFAQ
Can I get health insurance if I'm over 55?
Yes, you can get health insurance if you're over 55. In fact, there are many options available for the elderly, including Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and private health insurance.
Is Medicare the same as health insurance?
Medicare is a type of health insurance, but it's not the same as traditional health insurance. Medicare is run by the government which provides health coverage for elderly people with certain disabilities.
Can I get health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, you can get health insurance if you have a pre-existing condition.
What should I look for when choosing a health insurance plan?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a health insurance plan. First, you'll want to consider your budget and the costs of the plan, including premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. You'll also want to consider the plan's network of providers, as well as the benefits and coverage offered. Additionally, you should consider any special needs or conditions that you or your family members may have. Finally, it's important to compare plans to find the one that's best for you.
Conclusion
health insurance is very important for the elderly. There are many different options available they can choose from, so it’s important to do your research and speak with a health insurance agent to find the best plan for you.
With the right health insurance, you can feel confident knowing that you’re protected in case of a medical emergency.
We Also Recommend:
What Is Dwelling Insurance And What Does It Cover?
20 Best Cheap Car Insurance For Young Female Drivers
Group Health Insurance For Small Businesses