Medicare 101: Understanding Your Options & Making Informed Choices

Medicare can feel like a maze—full of choices, deadlines, and fine print that can make anyone’s head spin. Whether you’re approaching 65, helping a loved one, or just planning ahead, understanding how Medicare works can save you money, prevent penalties, and ensure you get the right coverage when you need it most.

In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, I sit down with Medicare expert Sharon Knox to break down the essentials—without the overwhelming jargon. We’ll explore what Medicare covers, what it doesn’t, how much it costs, and how to make the best choices for your unique situation.

Who Qualifies for Medicare?

One of the biggest questions people ask is: What are the requirements for Medicare?

Medicare is available to:

Anyone 65 or older
Younger individuals with certain disabilities (such as ALS or end-stage renal disease)
People who have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (or have a spouse who has)

Even if you’re not quite there yet, understanding the basics now can help you plan smarter for your future.

How Much Does Medicare Cost?

Healthcare costs can be a major concern, and I often hear people ask: How much does Medicare cost? The answer depends on which parts of Medicare you need:

Part A (Hospital Insurance) – Free if you or your spouse worked at least 10 years. Otherwise, up to $505 per month in 2025.
Part B (Medical Insurance) – Starts at $174.70 per month, but higher earners may pay more.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) – Costs vary by plan, with some options as low as $0 per month but with different copay structures.
Part D (Prescription Drug Plans) – Pricing depends on the plan and medications you need.

Missing your enrollment period could mean lifetime penalties, so it’s important to know your deadlines.

What Medicare Doesn’t Cover

A lot of people assume Medicare covers everything, but that’s not the case. What are the things Medicare doesn’t cover? Here are some big ones:

❌ Dental, vision, and hearing care (except in certain cases)

❌ Long-term nursing home care

❌ Acupuncture and routine chiropractic care

❌ Cosmetic procedures

❌ Most prescription drugs (unless you enroll in Part D)

If you need these services, a Medicare Advantage plan or a supplemental plan could help fill in the gaps.

When Should You Sign Up for Medicare?

Another common question is: What is the age limit for Medicare?

Medicare doesn’t have a maximum age limit, but you should enroll by age 65 unless you have creditable employer coverage. Otherwise, you could face late enrollment penalties that stay with you for life.

Even if retirement feels far away, it’s a good idea to plan ahead so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Making Medicare Work for You

Medicare isn’t a one-size-fits-all program, and the best plan for you depends on your health, lifestyle, and budget. That’s why working with an independent Medicare expert like Sharon Knox can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Need guidance? Visit Sharon Knox’s website at https://www.meta-insurancesolutions.com for expert support.

If you found this helpful, please share it with someone who could benefit from it. Let’s make these conversations easier for everyone.