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Dental, vision, and hearing insurance in retirement

Consider these options while looking for coverage.
It's important to maintain the care of your oral health, vision, and auditory senses. In retirement, although there may be certain services covered, usually dental, vision, and hearing aren't covered in Medicare (Part A and Part B). However, if you're a retiree who receives Medicare, there are still options available. When considering your options, it's critical to remember your needs for basic routine services like dental exams, cleanings, dentures, vision exams for eye wear, and hearing aids.  
 
Two main options are enrolling in Medicare Advantage (Part C) for those benefits, and purchasing standalone (private) insurance plans. 

Dental insurance in retirement

It's a good idea to consider your current and future needs for oral care. For example, for regular cleanings, if you're prone to cavities, or if you have dentures or think you may need them. Because some services may either be fully or partially covered, it's worthwhile to review your plan benefits. If you're a retiree receiving Medicare, if you're eligible, you may be able to pair Medicare Advantage (Part C) with standalone dental insurance. 
 
Standalone dental insurance can be affordable, but there can also be drawbacks, so take time to find a plan that fits your needs. You could also look for discount dental plans or savings plans. Companies who work with dentists, offer a fair price for services or procedures and you’ll get a negotiated, lower price. You can typically save between 10% and 60% on the price of dental services.1

Vision insurance in retirement

Our vision often changes with age. For example, cataracts, dry eyes, and loss of peripheral vision. Age-related eye health problems could cause loss of vision and affect ones quality of life. It's worthwhile to consider your age-related eye and vision care needs in retirement. Some vision options are:
 
Standalone vision insurance. These plans offer policies that cover a portion of your eye care costs, and you a pay either a monthly or annual premium. Coverage for vision insurance plans can also be paired with Medicare (Part C). They can fill in the gaps and cover services related to eye health — preventative and routine care; however, coverage benefits vary so be sure to take time compare plans for the best one for your health and financial needs.
 
Vision discount plans. These plans provide a discount on vision services and products but for a fee — either annually or monthly, and pay a discounted rate to their provider within their network. 
 
Vision insurance plans and vision discount plans are different. Take time to find out what option is best for you and your needs, and which option will reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Hearing insurance in retirement

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is a common issue affecting aging adults. This is a concern because your hearing has a direct relationship to the way we talk and even connect with others. Keep in mind that while there are some hearing benefits offered through Medicare, there are limits to auditory services. For example, Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn't pay for hearing aids or routine auditory exams2 that may be helpful in identifying if hearing aids are needed However, most Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans usually offer benefits that cover the cost of hearing test and the cost of hearing aids, but the amount varies depending upon the plan you select.2 For this reason, standalone hearing insurance plans may be a valuable option to consider.

Consider your coverage options in retirement

Keep in mind, the specifics of your Medicare Advantage (Part C) dental, vision, and hearing coverages will vary depending on the plan you select. You'll want to check if the plan you're considering offers other benefits that are essential to you that could be excluded or require an additional policy like: 

  • Preferred doctors 
  • Prescriptions
  • Coverage if you're traveling or out of the country 
  • Coverage for spouse or children 

To add, because choosing the right dental, vision, and hearing coverage plans could depend on your health needs and financial situation, it's also sensible to review the terms and coverage limits of standalone insurance plans before making a decision. 

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1. Michelle Crouch, "11 Ways to Save on Dental Care," AARP, October 19, 2022, https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/dental-care-payment-options.html. 2. "Hearing aids," Medicare.gov, 2025, https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/hearing-aids.

This information is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only.

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