Seniors and Prescription Drug Costs

The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reported in their 2021-2022 National Health Interview Survey that an estimated 89 percent of adults over 65 were taking prescription drugs to manage chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure and diabetes. They also found some of those seniors were having a hard time paying for prescribed drugs. 

The survey showed 4 percent of older adults who were prescribed medication did not take it due to cost; and the expense prevented another 3.4 percent of adults from taking their medications per doctors’ orders. More recently, a 2023 survey from the journal JAMA, reports 1 in 5 older adults were not taking prescribed medications due to cost. Also, a 2024 AARP survey found “nearly half of adults aged 50-plus have skipped filling their prescriptions — or know someone who has — due to cost.” 

Many of those not taking their prescribed medications or taking less of the amount prescribed are dealing with several chronic conditions. Some report having no drug insurance coverage; and the problem is reflected in the fact that statistics show the majority of adults aged 50 and above are paying out of pocket for prescriptions drugs. 

Thankfully over the last few years there have been a number of steps taken to at least make things easier for seniors on Medicare. Insulin copays were capped at $35 for a month’s supply; and many vaccines including shingles and RSV are free to Medicare enrollees. Starting this year, everyone with a Medicare prescription drug plan will have co-pays capped at $2,000 annually. Another plan called “Extra Help,” targeted toward low-income seniors, will expand eligibility requirements in an effort to help those seniors having trouble paying for necessary medications. 

For outstanding assisted living in Houston, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. Our beautiful community is designed to meet residents’ every need.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and amenities to ensure their comfort and wellbeing. Please contact us to inquire about availability, pricing or to set up a tour.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest assisted living Houston has to offer.

Source: aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-2024/more-older-adults-need-prescriptions.html