Health & Wellness Services: A Lifeline for Seniors
Healthcare is one of the largest and most unpredictable expenses, especially for older Americans. Costco has invested heavily in health and wellness services, providing members with affordable access to high-quality care for vision, hearing, and prescriptions. These departments are often the most compelling reason for seniors to maintain a membership.
Costco Hearing Aid Centers
Hearing loss is a common issue that can significantly impact quality of life, yet the high cost of hearing aids—often $4,000 to $8,000 a pair—puts them out of reach for many. This is where Costco makes a profound difference. The process of getting hearing aids at Costco is professional, accessible, and affordable.
It starts with a free hearing test conducted in a private sound booth by a state-licensed hearing aid dispenser. This is not just a simple screening; it is a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for hearing aids. If you are, the specialist will discuss your options. Costco offers premium, top-tier technology from the world’s leading manufacturers, but they are sold under the Kirkland Signature brand or co-branded at a fraction of the traditional cost.
The price you are quoted includes everything: the hearing aids themselves, a carrying case, a cleaning kit, and, most importantly, a warranty that includes loss and damage protection. It also includes free follow-up appointments for cleanings, check-ups, and adjustments for the lifetime of the hearing aids. The combination of cutting-edge technology, professional care, and a transparent, low price makes Costco one of the best places in the country for hearing health.
Costco Optical
Right next to the hearing aid center, you will find Costco Optical. Just like the rest of the store, the focus is on value and quality. Most locations have an independent Doctor of Optometry on-site who can perform comprehensive eye exams for a competitive price. You do not need to be a member to see the doctor, but you do need a membership to purchase glasses or contact lenses.
The selection of frames includes brand names as well as the high-quality Kirkland Signature line. Where Costco Optical truly shines is in the pricing of high-end lenses. If you need progressive lenses, anti-glare coatings, or high-index lenses for a strong prescription, the savings compared to private optical shops can be substantial. They also offer competitive pricing on major brands of contact lenses, both online and in the warehouse.
Costco Pharmacy
The Costco Pharmacy is another powerhouse of savings. It is consistently ranked among the lowest-priced pharmacies in the country for both brand-name and generic drugs. By law in most states, you do not have to be a Costco member to use the pharmacy for prescription drugs, but you do need a membership to purchase over-the-counter medications and vitamins.
For members without prescription drug insurance, or for those whose insurance does not cover a particular medication, the Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP) can be a financial lifesaver. This is a discount program—not insurance—that can offer deep discounts on thousands of drugs. It is free to join with your Costco membership and is a crucial resource for managing healthcare costs.
