Paying for Long Term Care

Title: Exploring Long-Term Care Insurance Options for Financial Security

Author: Thomas Swenson, J.D.

Published: December 16, 2022

Word count: 1,863

Understanding the Importance of Long-Term Care Insurance

As life expectancy increases, the need for long-term care (LTC) becomes more likely. The rising costs associated with nursing homes and in-home care can quickly deplete retirement savings, potentially erasing any intended inheritance for loved ones. To mitigate this financial burden, various insurance products have been developed specifically for long-term care planning.

Different Insurance Options for Long-Term Care

Long-term care insurance encompasses policies designed exclusively for LTC, as well as certain life insurance and annuity policies that include LTC benefits. Many life insurance and annuity policies offer “living benefit riders” (LBRs) or accelerated benefit riders (ABRs), providing coverage while the insured is alive. LBRs are either automatically included or available as an additional cost. These riders are treated as life insurance for tax purposes and cover chronic illness, terminal illness, critical illness, and critical injury.

Statistics Supporting LTC Insurance Consideration

Several compelling statistics support the need for LTC insurance:

Approximately 70% of individuals aged 65 and older will require some form of long-term care.
Around 21% of adults aged 65+ will need LTC for a period ranging from 2 to 4.9 years.
One in three seniors passes away with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
After an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, patients typically live for 4 to 8 years.
The national average cost of a private nursing home room in 2021 was $297 per day or $108,000 annually.
Average costs varied across states, such as Massachusetts ($162K), Connecticut ($182K), New York ($159K), Oregon ($133K), Colorado ($117K), and Alaska ($378K).
Assisted living costs averaged $53K annually, while in-home care ranged from $50K to $200K depending on the level of care and hours required.
Only 16% of adults aged 65+ have LTC insurance.
Unpaid family members and friends provide 80% of long-term care in the U.S.
Reasons to Consider LTC Insurance

Considering the potential financial impact of long-term care expenses, it is advisable for most individuals to explore LTC insurance options. The costs, which can amount to tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, can deplete accumulated wealth. While a reverse mortgage can provide financial support for those with substantial home equity, it may not suffice for many. LTC insurance offers a way to protect one’s legacy and ensure financial security.

Common Reasons for Avoiding LTC Planning

People often avoid LTC planning for various reasons, such as the perceived high cost of traditional LTC insurance. The uncertainty surrounding the need for LTC can deter individuals from investing in coverage they may not use. However, the statistics regarding long-term care needs suggest that hope alone is not a sufficient strategy.

Medicare and Medicaid Limitations

Misconceptions about Medicare and Medicaid can lead individuals to believe that these programs fully cover long-term care expenses. In reality, Medicare primarily covers short-term rehabilitation after hospital stays. Medicaid does cover long-term care but is limited to individuals with no income or assets. Certain Medicaid-planning techniques can help mitigate Medicaid’s strict means testing and collection procedures.

Exploring Different LTC Coverage Options

LTC coverage depends on the type of insurance policy purchased. Traditional LTC insurance provides comprehensive coverage and often qualifies for a state’s Medicaid partnership program. Single premium life insurance policies offer LTC benefits and allow policyholders to request a refund of their entire premium if needed. Cash-value life insurance policies, like universal