Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover glasses?
Original Medicare does not cover routine eyeglasses — with one exception: after cataract surgery, Medicare Part B covers one pair of standard frames and lenses. Medicare Advantage plans often include $100–$300 annual vision allowances.
Does Medicare cover eye exams?
Part B covers specific medical eye exams: diabetic retinopathy annually (diabetics), glaucoma screening annually (high-risk individuals), diagnostic exams for symptoms, and AMD treatment injections. Routine vision exams for glasses are not covered.
Does Medicare Advantage cover vision?
Most plans include an annual eye exam and an allowance ($100–$300) for frames and lenses. Call your plan and ask specifically about your vision benefit and network requirements.
What free programs help seniors get glasses?
EyeCare America (eyecareamerica.org) — free exams and glasses for qualifying seniors 65+. Lions Club International — free or reduced-cost glasses. Vision USA through AOA. Medicaid covers comprehensive vision for dual-eligible beneficiaries.
Original Medicare's vision coverage is limited — but not as limited as most seniors believe. There are covered medical eye exams, post-cataract glasses, and free assistance programs. Here is the complete picture.
What Original Medicare Covers
- Diabetic retinopathy screening — annually for all diabetics, Part B
- Glaucoma screening — annually for high-risk: diabetics, family history, African Americans 50+, Hispanic Americans 65+
- Diagnostic eye exams — for specific symptoms (vision changes, eye pain, sudden floaters)
- Post-cataract glasses — one pair standard frames/lenses after cataract surgery
- AMD treatment — Eylea, Lucentis injections covered under Part B
What Medicare Does NOT Cover
- Routine eye exams for glasses prescriptions
- Eyeglasses (except post-cataract)
- Contact lenses (except post-cataract)
- LASIK or refractive surgery
Medicare Advantage Vision
Most Medicare Advantage plans include an annual eye exam and a $100–$300 allowance for frames and lenses. Benefits vary by plan — call your plan and ask specifically about your vision benefit. During AEP (Oct 15–Dec 7), compare plans on vision benefits if you wear glasses.
Free and Low-Cost Options
- EyeCare America (eyecareamerica.org) — free eye exams and follow-up for seniors 65+ not covered by HMO/VA
- Lions Club International — free or reduced-cost glasses in most communities
- Vision USA (aoa.org) — free care for low-income uninsured seniors
- Medicaid — comprehensive vision for dual-eligible (Medicare + Medicaid) beneficiaries
- Costco Optical — significantly lower prices, no membership required for optical
- AARP discounts — Target Optical, LensCrafters, Pearle Vision
- If you have diabetes, schedule your annual retinopathy screening — free
- After cataract surgery, claim your covered glasses benefit
- Check EyeCare America if you need care and have cost concerns
- During AEP, compare Medicare Advantage plans on vision allowances
→ Medicare Cataract Surgery
→ AEP: Compare Plans With Vision Benefits