Most individuals don’t think about long term care insurance when it comes to their health. Health insurance and Medicare are seen as the only coverages you need as you grow older. However, basic health and Medicare policies have certain exclusions that could leave you facing unexpected and expensive bills. One common exclusion is long term care. 

If you need long term care once you retire, your Medicare or other health insurance may not help with the expenses. Thankfully, long term care insurance is available for those who need it. 

Long term care insurance can cover necessary care both in and outside of your home. This includes: 

• Skilled nursing care 
• Occupational, speech, physical and rehabilitation therapy 
• Personal care including bathing and dressing 
• Adult day service centers 
• Hospice care 
• Respite care 
• Assisted living facilities 
• Alzheimer’s special care facilities 
• Nursing homes 

This insurance can even cover some housekeeping and cooking services, if it is directly related to your long-term care needs. 
It is generally recommended that you purchase long term care insurance before you need these services. This way, you can have a policy in place before you face expensive bills for important care. You may want to purchase a long-term care insurance policy as you near the age at which you intend to retire. 

The majority of long-term care insurance claims come from policyholders 70 years of age or older. However, many individuals choose to purchase this insurance earlier, such as in their 40s and 50s. There is no set age at which you must purchase long-term car insurance. Instead, this insurance should be purchased when you feel that you may need it.  

Do I Need Long Term Care Insurance? 

Living without this insurance can be risky as you grow older, as both in-home and facility care can be expensive. Not only can this insurance help you, but it can also help anyone tasked with taking care of you when you are in need of extra care. 

Speak with your loved ones about your possible long-term care insurance needs when you consider purchasing a policy. An experienced insurance agent can also help you make the right decision when it comes to your health care. If your family has a history of needing specialized care, such as if Alzheimer’s runs in your family, you could be at high risk of needing specialized care down the road.