These are the 3 basic expenses Medicare doesn’t cover that can total over $100K a year. How to plan ahead

Core Insights - Medicare does not cover vision care, leading to significant out-of-pocket expenses for routine eye exams and corrective lenses [1][5] - Dental care costs without insurance can vary widely, with average dental cleaning ranging from $75 to $200, and fillings costing between $50 and $250 depending on the material used [2][4] - Households relying on Medicare spent an additional $7,000 annually on uncovered healthcare expenses, highlighting the financial burden of healthcare in retirement [4][18] Vision Care - The average cost of a routine eye exam is approximately $136 without insurance, with retail chains like Walmart and Sam's Club offering lower prices starting at $75 and $45 respectively [1] - The average cost of prescription eyeglasses without insurance is around $350, with significant variation based on frame and lens choices [5] Dental Care - The average cost of dental cleaning without insurance is between $75 and $200, while cavity fillings can range from $50 to $150 for basic amalgam and $90 to $250 for composite resin or glass ionomer [2] Long-term Care - Medicare does not cover long-term care costs, which can be substantial, with yearly expenses for a home health aide averaging $77,796, assisted living at $70,800, and nursing home costs ranging from $111,324 for shared rooms to $127,750 for private rooms [12][16] - Long-term care insurance is recommended to mitigate these costs and protect retirement savings [13][14] Financial Planning - The average healthcare cost in retirement for a 65-year-old is estimated at $172,500, which includes Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket expenses but excludes dental and long-term care [18] - Contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA) during working years is advised, as HSA funds can grow tax-free and be used for medical expenses in retirement [17][27] - In 2026, HSA contribution limits are set at $4,400 for individuals and $8,750 for families, with an additional $1,000 allowed for those aged 55 and older [19][20]