As a Certified Financial Planner®, I was taught through textbooks and lectures about long-term
care insurance (LTCI). I didn’t truly understand its value until I watched my mother slowly fade.
My mom was vibrant, sharp, and fiercely independent. When her health began to decline, my
father did everything he could to care for her at home. Eventually, it became more than one
person could manage alone. My brother moved back in, putting his own life on hold to help care
for our mom and support our aging dad. We often discussed whether a care facility might offer
greater comfort and safety for her as well as for my father. But without LTCI, that option simply
wasn’t financially possible. Love was abundant. Resources were not.
That experience changed me—not just as a son, but as a financial advisor.
Meanwhile, I had the opportunity to discuss the financial plan of my mother-in-law. We talked
honestly about her future, her independence, and what she wanted if she ever needed help.
She chose to apply for LTCI. Today, as she begins to need services, there is a deep sense of
comfort in knowing she can draw from that plan instead of depleting her retirement savings. She
has choices. Her family has support.
I’ve also seen the consequences of waiting. One client easily qualified for long-term care
coverage but didn’t feel emotionally ready to move forward. “Maybe next year,” they said. When
they returned a year later, ready to apply, their health had changed just enough that they no
longer qualified. The door had quietly closed. Much like life insurance, long-term care
coverage can only be purchased before it’s needed.
Statistically speaking, nearly 70% of those over the age of 65 will require some form of care.
Whether help at home, assisted living, or full-time care near the end of life.¹ While no one knows
exactly how their story will unfold, the odds strongly suggest that planning ahead is simply
prudent.
People often ask me, “How much does it cost?” or “What benefits will I get?” The honest answer
is that it depends on age and health. The best way to understand what coverage might look like
is to have a personal conversation with an advisor who can walk through the options—before
choices are taken away.
LTCI isn’t just about money. It’s about protecting families, preserving relationships, and giving
yourself the gift of choice.
Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of and securities offered through OneAmerica Securities, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC. These concepts were derived under current laws and regulations. Changes in the law or regulations may affect the information provided. Provided content is for overview and informational purposes only and is not intended and should not be relied upon as individualized tax,
legal, fiduciary, or investment advice.
1. Caregiver Resources & Long-Term Care (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)