Maximize Your Retirement with an Affordable Vision Plan

Retirement is a time of new beginnings and exciting opportunities, but it also comes with its own set of uncertainties. One thing you can actively manage is your vision care coverage. As we age, our eyesight naturally changes, making it essential to prioritize eye health to enjoy a high quality of life during your retirement. Caring for your eyes is important at any age, but for those 50 and older, it becomes even more crucial.

Even if you think you're already fully covered by Medicare or just think you don’t need vision insurance, the reality is that full-service vision care is essential for everyone — especially retirees. Here are five compelling reasons every retiree should prioritize vision insurance, along with how a VSP® Individual Vision Plan can seamlessly fit into your retirement strategy.

1) Fill the Void Left by Employer-Sponsored Insurance

Without the safety net of employer-sponsored plans, many retirees may be unprepared for the expenses associated with routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses that were previously covered.

Many retirees find themselves facing unexpected out-of-pocket costs for eye care services, and some may even find themselves without any vision insurance at all. This sudden gap in coverage can lead to letting your regular appointments fall to the wayside and ultimately may result in an undetected decline in eye health and overall well-being during this important life stage.

2) Bridge the Gap in Medicare Benefits

While Medicare is a valuable resource for retirees, many are surprised to learn that it has limitations when it comes to vision coverage. Typically, Medicare does not actually cover routine eye exams or the costs of glasses and contact lenses*. Understanding these types of gaps in coverage is crucial for retirees to manage expenses, maintain their eye health and fully enjoy their retirement.

3) Manage Benefits on a Fixed Income

Managing vision care on a fixed income can be particularly daunting, as the out-of-pocket costs of routine eye exams, glasses (including lens enhancements like progressives), and contact lenses can accumulate quickly without insurance. Many retirees find it challenging to maintain their vision care needs while juggling other necessary living expenses on a limited budget. 

A VSP Individual Vision Plan can be an effective solution, helping to alleviate the financial burden associated with quality vision care. Starting as low as $13 a month, these plans are ideal for those aged 55 and older who are losing their employer sponsored full-service vision coverage. With full-service benefits that include eye exams, glasses, lens enhancements and contact lenses, VSP members save an average of over $350 per year¹ . Plus, retirees can customize their plans to fit their budgets and lifestyles, ensuring they only pay for what they need. With the peace of mind that comes from knowing their vision care is covered, retirees can focus on enjoying their retirement to the fullest.

4) Protect Your Overall Health with Proactive Vision Care

Vision care is not just about preserving good eyesight; it plays a vital role in proactively detecting health issues, making it crucial for maintaining your overall health in retirement.
Annual eye exams can detect underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers, allowing for early detection and timely treatment that can improve health outcomes. Many eye conditions develop with few or no symptoms until they become severe, so regular exams are essential for catching potential problems early. In retirement, your health is too important to overlook your vision; prioritizing eye exams ensures you can fully enjoy this vibrant chapter of your life.

5) Maintain Quality of Life

Vision is considered one of the strongest senses, as we recognize approximately 80% of all impressions through our eyes. This makes it especially vital during retirement, a time filled with opportunities for hobbies and relaxation. 
Good eyesight enhances experiences in beloved pastimes like reading, gardening, and spending time with family. Whether watching the grandkids play, enjoying family gatherings, or taking in nature on leisurely walks, sharp vision enriches every moment.

Build Your Customizable Plan Today

Retirement should be a time of relaxation, joy and pursuing passions, and seeing your best is essential for fully enjoying this vibrant chapter of your life.

VSP Individual Vision Plans provide the reliable coverage you need for a worry-free retirement, allowing you to create cherished memories with family and explore the world around you. Don’t wait until it’s too late to prioritize your vision care—build a plan today that fits your unique needs and empowers you to savor every moment.

Ready to get started? Investing in a VSP Individual Vision Plan means investing in your health, happiness, and overall quality of life!


*Check your Medicare Plan to see if your vision care needs are covered and/or if a VSP Individual Vision Plan is right for you. VSP Vision Care does not coordinate benefits with Medicare.

¹ Savings based on state and national averages for eye exams and most commonly purchased brands and lens enhancements. This number represents average savings for VSP members at in-network providers. Your actual savings will depend on the eyewear you choose, your plan, the eye doctor you visit, your copays, and your premium. Source: VSP book-of-business paid claims data for Aug-Jan of each prior year.   

Disclaimer: Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plans’ social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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