Older Americans See GLP-1 Coverage as Top Priority

New survey finds majority of eligible seniors view access to GLP-1 medications as crucial

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:41am

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph revealing the internal structure of an elderly hand holding a medication vial, conceptually illustrating the importance of access to innovative diabetes treatments for seniors.A new survey finds that older Americans view access to cutting-edge diabetes medications as a top healthcare priority.Washington Today

A new survey from the Older Adults Advocacy Network (OCAN) has found that a majority of eligible older Americans view coverage and access to GLP-1 medications as a top priority. GLP-1 agonists are a class of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes and have shown promise in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults.

Why it matters

As the population of older Americans continues to grow, ensuring access to effective diabetes treatments like GLP-1 medications will be crucial for managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes in this demographic. The survey results highlight the importance of policies that support affordable coverage and availability of these medications for seniors.

The details

The OCAN survey polled over 2,000 adults aged 65 and older who are eligible for Medicare. It found that 57% of respondents identified GLP-1 medication coverage as a top priority, ranking it higher than access to other diabetes drugs, preventive screenings, and mental health services. The findings underscore the significant impact these medications can have on the health of older adults with type 2 diabetes.

  • The OCAN survey was conducted in March 2026.

The players

Older Adults Advocacy Network (OCAN)

A non-profit organization that advocates for the healthcare needs of older Americans.

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What’s next

The survey results are expected to inform policy discussions around Medicare coverage and prescription drug pricing for GLP-1 medications.

The takeaway

As the population of older Americans grows, prioritizing access to innovative diabetes treatments like GLP-1 drugs will be key to managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes in this demographic.