Which demographic is primarily served by Medicare?

Medicare primarily serves persons over 65 years of age. This program was established to provide health coverage for elderly individuals who typically have increased healthcare needs due to age-related health issues. While there are provisions within Medicare that allow for coverage of younger individuals with certain disabilities or specific health conditions, the main demographic targeted by Medicare is seniors aged 65 and older. This age threshold reflects the common perception of retirement age and the entry point for many individuals to transition into a healthcare program specifically designed to address the complexities and needs of older adults.

Although there are other programs that cater to low-income individuals or children, those would not align with the primary purpose and structure of Medicare. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the program’s focus on the older population, making it an essential component of the healthcare system for those who traditionally require more medical services and support.