What was the primary purpose of Medicare when enacted in 1965?

The primary purpose of Medicare when it was enacted in 1965 was to provide health insurance for older Americans. This was a significant development in U.S. healthcare, as it aimed to ensure that individuals aged 65 and older had access to necessary medical services and could afford healthcare costs, which often escalate with age. Prior to Medicare, many older adults faced difficulties in obtaining health insurance or were unable to afford medical care due to their limited income and increased health needs. As a result, Medicare was established to alleviate these challenges, enabling seniors to receive hospital care, physician services, and other essential healthcare services without facing prohibitive costs.