Medicare is a federal program designed for which age group?

Medicare is primarily designed for persons who are 65 years of age and older. This program was established to provide essential health insurance coverage for seniors, helping them manage healthcare costs as they retire and often face increased medical needs. While there are provisions in Medicare for certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific conditions, the foundational aspect of the program centers around the senior population.

The focus on individuals aged 65 and older recognizes that this group typically requires more healthcare services, as aging often brings about chronic health issues. Therefore, Medicare serves as a critical safety net for these individuals, ensuring they have access to necessary medical care and financial support for hospital visits, outpatient care, and various health services.

In contrast, the other options either refer to age groups not primarily served by Medicare or incorrectly imply universal coverage regardless of age.