What is the target demographic for the Medicare program?

The Medicare program is designed specifically for a target demographic that includes individuals who are 65 years of age or older, as well as those who are under 65 but have specific conditions such as permanent kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) or disabilities recognized by the Social Security Administration. This unique setup ensures that seniors receive healthcare coverage that addresses their specific medical needs, which tend to be more prevalent in older age groups, and extends to certain disabled individuals who may require ongoing medical care even before reaching retirement age.

This broad inclusion underlines the program's objective of providing critical healthcare services and supporting a vulnerable population that needs assistance with medical expenses. The other options presented do not correctly capture the primary aim of Medicare, as they either include age groups not served by the program or mischaracterize the specific conditions that qualify individuals for coverage.