Chart of the Week: Out-of-pocket health care spending by gender and age

WEEK OF OCTOBER 20, 2025

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) analysis of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, 2016

As clients age, out-of-pocket health care spending increases — with the sharpest rise after age 75. Women, who often live longer, tend to face the highest costs.

This data is a reminder that health and long-term care expenses must be part of every retirement strategy. Helping clients anticipate and prepare for these rising costs can make a critical difference in sustaining financial security throughout retirement.