Who is eligible for Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and older. This age group is typically the one that qualifies automatically for Medicare, as they are often at a stage in life where healthcare needs increase. Additionally, the program extends eligibility to certain people under 65 who have specific disabilities, or those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), regardless of age. This broader eligibility provides essential healthcare coverage for those who may not yet reach retirement age but require medical care due to their conditions.

The other choices narrow eligibility incorrectly by either excluding the elderly or mistakenly applying income restrictions as sole determinants for qualifying for Medicare. Thus, the correct answer encompasses the key criteria for eligibility based on age and certain disabilities, making it the comprehensive choice.