Individuals are eligible for Medicare for all of the following reasons except:

Individuals qualify for Medicare primarily due to specific age, disability, or medical conditions rather than financial need. Those aged 65 or older automatically become eligible, as do individuals under 65 who have been receiving Social Security disability benefits for a certain period. Additionally, individuals with specific diseases, such as end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are also entitled to Medicare coverage.

Financial need does not determine eligibility for Medicare. This program is designed to provide health coverage irrespective of an individual's income or wealth status, setting it apart from programs like Medicaid, which is aimed specifically at aiding those with limited financial resources. Thus, the correct distinction revolves around the fundamental characteristics of Medicare's eligibility requirements, emphasizing age, disability, and specific health conditions, rather than the financial situation of the beneficiaries.