Medicare 2026 Shocker — These 5 Benefits Are NOT Included!
By Retirees Benefits
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Introduction
As we move toward 2026, millions of Americans are realizing that Medicare still misses some critical healthcare needs — from vision and dental care to hearing aids and long-term support.
If you rely on Medicare or help a loved one manage their benefits, this guide explains exactly what’s not covered in 2026, and how to protect yourself financially.
Watch the full video breakdown on our channel 👉
🎥 Medicare 2026 Shocker — These 5 Benefits Are NOT Included!
1️⃣ Vision Care — Still Not Covered
Original Medicare still doesn’t pay for routine eye exams, glasses, or contact lenses.
Only medically necessary procedures — like one pair of glasses after cataract surgery — are covered.
💡 Average out-of-pocket: $100–$250 for an exam + $300–$500 for eyewear.
👉 Tip: Some Medicare Advantage plans include small vision allowances ($150–$200).
Check affordable eyewear at Zenni Optical or Costco Vision Centers for discounts.
2️⃣ Hearing Aids — Major Out-of-Pocket Costs
Medicare does not cover hearing aids or fittings. Diagnostic tests only are included.
🎧 Average cost: $2,000–$6,000 per pair, replaced every 5–7 years.
Alternatives:
- Over-the-counter hearing aids ($800–$1,000/pair) from stores or pharmacies
- Veterans Administration (VA) often offers free hearing aids to qualified veterans
- Some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited hearing coverage
Watch our full guide on this topic here →
▶️ Hearing Aid Costs Under Medicare 2026
3️⃣ Dental Care — The Hidden Expense
Routine dental work — cleanings, fillings, dentures, implants — all remain uncovered by Medicare.
💰 Average costs: $150 for a filling, $3,000–$5,000 for an implant.
Solutions:
- Medicare Advantage dental add-ons (caps $1,000–$1,500)
- Dental discount plans (20–60% off)
- Community clinics with income-based pricing
For detailed options, check our full dental guide here:
🦷 Medicare & Dental Coverage Explained
4️⃣ Long-Term Custodial Care — Not a Medicare Benefit
Medicare does not cover daily living assistance (like bathing, dressing, or long-term nursing home care).
🏥 Coverage limit:
- 1–20 days fully covered (after 3-day hospital stay)
- 21–100 days: coinsurance required
- After 100 days: 100% self-pay
Alternatives:
- Medicaid (income-based coverage)
- Long-term care insurance
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
- VA Aid & Attendance Benefit for veterans
Learn how to plan for long-term care costs in our retirement video →
🎬 Smart Retirement Planning for 2026
5️⃣ Traditional Physicals — Misunderstood Coverage
Medicare provides wellness visits, not full “head-to-toe” annual physicals.
If you ask for blood tests or screenings without a medical reason, you may be billed.
💡 Ask specifically for your “Annual Wellness Visit” when scheduling to avoid charges.
✅ What Is Changing in 2026
- Part D Cap: $2,100 max out-of-pocket, with monthly payment plan option
- Free Vaccines: Shingles, pneumonia, flu — all $0 under Part D
- Insulin Cap: $35/month continues
- Expanded dental coverage (only for medical necessity cases)
💬 Final Thoughts
Medicare’s gaps can be confusing — but being informed gives you control.
At Retirees Benefits, we break down complex policies into plain English so you never miss critical updates.
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