Retirement healthcare could cost $185,500 even with Medicare: How to prepare

A Fidelity study estimates a 65-year-old retiring in 2026 will spend $185,500 on healthcare costs during retirement.

Medicare does not cover all medical expenses; retirees may still face premiums, deductibles, and co-pays, and original Medicare does not cover all services.

The $185,500 estimate could be higher for younger workers due to inflation increasing medical costs.

Adding supplemental insurance to fill gaps in Medicare is one recommended way to prepare for healthcare expenses in retirement.