Since 2020, telemedicine has shifted from a “someday” innovation to a cornerstone of modern healthcare. What began as a pandemic necessity is now an established part of the care landscape, offering safety, convenience, and expanded access to services. For seniors and their families, telehealth can mean quicker answers, fewer trips to the doctor, and better connections with healthcare providers.
Discover how telehealth is revolutionizing senior care and gain practical advice for maximizing the benefits of virtual visits.
Telehealth’s Mainstream Moment
Telehealth adoption skyrocketed during the pandemic, and it hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s holding steady.
- 25% of Medicare fee-for-service users had a telehealth visit in 2024, a rate similar to 2023.
- Nearly 3 million Medicare beneficiaries used telehealth in the first quarter of 2024.
- During the height of the pandemic, Medicare telehealth visits increased 63-fold compared to 2019, and nearly half of primary care visits were virtual.
Telehealth comes in several forms: live video visits (synchronous), secure message exchanges and data sharing (asynchronous), and remote patient monitoring (RPM) using connected devices.
For many seniors, especially those in rural areas, with mobility challenges, or managing chronic illnesses, telemedicine has become a routine and trusted part of healthcare.
What Telehealth Costs for Seniors
While most major insurance plans now cover telehealth visits, out-of-pocket costs for seniors can range from $40 to $100 for a standard appointment without insurance. These costs may be comparable to or lower than typical in-person copays, but may vary depending on the insurance plan, provider, and type of visit.
Subscription-based telehealth services can provide unlimited visits for a monthly fee, which may be a good option for seniors who require frequent check-ins. Seniors should check with their provider and insurer to confirm coverage and out-of-pocket costs before scheduling a virtual visit.
Medicare Telehealth Coverage in 2025
Medicare’s telehealth rules have evolved significantly since 2018.
- Pandemic expansions extended through September 30, 2025. Seniors can receive telehealth from home regardless of where they live.
- Without further legislation, geographic restrictions may return starting October 1, 2025, limiting telehealth coverage to certain areas or facilities. Some exceptions will remain, such as for Medicare Advantage plans or Accountable Care Organization providers.
The Benefits That Matter Most for Seniors
Telehealth offers far more than just convenience. Research shows measurable improvements in access, safety, and quality of care for older adults.
1. Care Access Without the Travel
For rural residents or those with limited mobility, telehealth removes the barrier of transportation from patient care. Seniors can connect with primary care doctors, specialists, and mental health providers without leaving home.
2. Reduced Risk of Illness Exposure
Avoiding crowded waiting rooms reduces exposure to seasonal illnesses, flu, and other contagious conditions. This benefit became clear during the pandemic and remains important today.
3. Support for Chronic Condition Management
Remote patient monitoring (RPM) allows healthcare providers to track vital signs, symptoms, and medication adherence. Studies show home-based telecare can reduce hospital admissions for patients with chronic diseases.
4. Improved Mental Health Care
Telepsychiatry has been shown to be effective and well-received among older adults, helping reduce missed appointments and increasing access to therapy and counseling.
5. Expanded Specialist Access
Seniors in remote locations can connect with top specialists across the country without costly travel. This broader access can lead to earlier diagnoses, more treatment options, and coordinated care plans that may not be available locally.
6. Accessibility Features
Modern telehealth platforms are increasingly designed with older adults in mind. Many now include closed captioning for those with hearing loss, enlarged text for easier reading, and even interpreter services for non-English speakers.
Challenges to Telehealth
While telehealth offers many benefits, there are still barriers for seniors.
- Technology comfort: Many seniors today still do not have access to the technology that is required for telehealth. And if they do have the technology, they might not know how to use it. One study found 82% of homebound seniors needed help connecting to telehealth.
- In-person follow-ups: Some telehealth visits still require follow-up office visits for physical exams or testing.
- Internet access: High-speed internet is essential for smooth video calls, but rural areas may still have limited broadband availability.
Tip: Seniors who are unsure about technology can practice with a caregiver or family member before their first telehealth visit.
Practical Tips for Seniors Using Telehealth
Making the most of a telehealth visit takes a little preparation. By planning ahead and using a few simple strategies, seniors can feel more comfortable, communicate effectively, and ensure the visit addresses their needs.
- Prepare your space: Find a quiet, well-lit location. Position your device so your face is clearly visible.
- Check your connection: Test your internet, camera, and microphone before the appointment.
- Gather your information: Have your medication list, recent vital signs, and questions ready.
- Invite a caregiver: A family member or caregiver can help with technology, take notes, and ensure follow-up steps are understood.
- Ask about coverage and costs: Confirm how the visit will be billed and if your insurance covers it.
Caring Senior Service: Ahead of the Curve
At Caring Senior Service, we recognized the potential of technology in senior care long before telehealth became the norm. We provide a tablet in every home so our clients can:
- Schedule appointments directly with our home care teams
- Communicate with our care team in real time
- Access remote monitoring tools to support their health and safety
- Maintain a medication log
Our caregivers are trained to help seniors navigate virtual visits, ensuring that technology enhances care instead of becoming a barrier.
The Road Ahead
Telehealth is no longer the future for senior care. It’s an essential part of today’s healthcare system. With expanded coverage, proven benefits, and growing comfort with technology, more seniors than ever are taking advantage of virtual visits.
As policy changes loom in late 2025, staying informed will help seniors and families make the most of this powerful care option.
