There are more than 18 million Americans over the age of 65. Most of them have low incomes. Most of them are threatened by illness and medical expenses that they cannot afford.And through this new law . . . Every citizen will be able . . . To insure himself against the ravages of illness in his old age.This insurance will help pay for care in hospitals, in skilled nursing homes, or in the home. According to President Johnson, what was the purpose of Medicare? To help Americans of all ages get health insurance to help all Americans stay healthier when they are young to help people save up for retirement medical expenses to help senior citizens with low incomes to pay for medical care
