What is a primary eligibility requirement for Medicare?

The primary eligibility requirement for Medicare is that individuals must generally be over the age of 65, with a specific emphasis on those who are retired. This age criterion has been established as Medicare was designed to support older adults, providing them with access to necessary healthcare services. Individuals who are aged 65 and older are encouraged to enroll in Medicare to ensure they receive medical coverage that may not be affordable through other means.

While there are provisions for younger individuals with certain disabilities or specific health conditions, the core eligibility rule focuses on those at or above retirement age, particularly highlighting individuals over 67 in this context. This guarantees that older adults can access essential healthcare coverage as they transition out of the workforce. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the fundamental requirement associated with Medicare eligibility.