patience in wheel chair

Planning Ahead: The Power of Long-Term Care Insurance

July 25, 20252 min read

long term care

Why Long-Term Care Planning Matters

Long-term care (LTC) isn’t just about nursing homes—it's about having the freedom to choose how and where you receive care when the time comes. With over 70% of adults over age 65 likely to need some form of long-term care in their lifetime, the financial and emotional burden on families can be overwhelming. Whether it’s in-home assistance, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities, the cost of care can quickly drain retirement savings. Long-term care insurance provides a safeguard, offering financial support and peace of mind during life’s most vulnerable moments.

What Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cover?

LTC insurance is designed to cover services that health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid often don’t. Policies typically cover daily living assistance such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility, whether care is provided at home, in an assisted living community, or in a nursing facility. Some policies even offer benefits for home modifications, care coordination services, and alternative care options. Understanding your coverage options early helps you tailor a plan that fits your preferences and budget.

Who Needs Long-Term Care Insurance?

Many people believe long-term care is only for the elderly or the wealthy. The truth is, it’s for anyone who wants to protect their assets, maintain independence, and avoid burdening family members. The best time to purchase LTC insurance is in your 40s to 60s, when premiums are more affordable and you’re more likely to qualify based on your health. Planning ahead not only helps you avoid last-minute crisis decisions but ensures you're in control of your future care options.

The Cost of Waiting

Delaying the conversation about long-term care can come at a steep cost. According to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, the average annual cost of a private room in a nursing home exceeds $108,000, and these rates rise each year. Without a long-term care plan in place, many families find themselves dipping into retirement accounts or relying on unpaid caregiving from loved ones. Early planning with long-term care insurance helps preserve wealth, reduce stress, and improve quality of care over time.

Cost of waiting

How Ai Merchantry Can Help

At Ai Merchantry, we’re committed to making long-term care planning simple, honest, and human. We partner with top-rated long-term care insurance carriers and offer customized solutions to meet your unique goals. Whether you're exploring traditional LTC, hybrid life+LTC, or asset-based plans, our advisors will walk you through your options with clarity and compassion. Ready to protect what matters most? [Click here to schedule a free consultation] or [download our LTC planning guide] to get started.

Back to news

Have questions? Contact us to learn more

Back to Blog