Social Security benefits have long been a source of controversy in the United States. While many consider them to be a necessary part of a responsible government, some see them as large money sink that serves no real purpose. Regardless of opinions, however, the hard fact is that in 2008, Social Security benefits paid out over $600 million to beneficiaries across the country-a figure that is growing every year. Those who receive Social Security-mainly older Americans who have put in a lifetime of work for companies or the government itself-are also often those who need the most access to health care. Many times, the start of Social Security benefits can coincide with a greater need for health insurance for those of advanced age, and this can be a difficult transition.

There are a number of reasons for this, beginning with the fact that while healthcare costs rise with age, incomes levels generally do not. Once citizens begin to collect their Social Security benefits, they are typically done working for a living, and their average income drops significantly. In many cases, it is only their pension and Social Security that provide them any income at all, and they have very little ability to adjust or increase their income when needed. Combine this with the fact that health insurance plans increase in premium costs as clients get older-based on their need to access health care services-and a problem begins to emerge. Older Americans are stuck with both a fixed income and a limited ability to afford necessary healthcare. This leads to two options for senior Americans-seek out companies that specifically aid those who are older and in need of health insurance quotes on a reduced budget, or access Medicare services.

After the age of 65, all Americans who paid into Social Security during their lifetimes are eligible for Medicare. This is a government-regulated program whose funds are generated by the same dollars that went into paying for Social Security benefits. Workers pay these fees on a regular basis and then can access Medicare after age 65. Medicare provides comprehensive healthcare, but typically only covers 80 percent of the costs. The remaining 20 percent is the responsibility of the elderly patient. It is wise for those on Social Security benefits to examine their options and try to find a private plan which caters to the specific needs of their age and can cover the costs not paid by Medicare.

While living on pensions and Social Security can mean that money is far tighter, it does not have to mean the end of healthcare if Americans have planned for their future and are responsible with their earnings.