4 Things To Know Before Talking With a Long-Term Care Agent
Long-term care insurance isn’t like other insurances, it takes a conversation with an expert to help determine if long-term care insurance is a good fit and what options are available. Here are 4 things to know before talking with a long-term care agent.
1. Long-Term Care is different from traditional medical care
Someone with a cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease, prolonged physical illness, or a disability, often needs long-term care. Long-term care services may include help with daily activities, home health care, respite care, hospice care, adult day care, care in a nursing home or care in an assisted living facility. Medical insurance doesn’t cover the long-term needs that many people face.
2. Work with an agent who specializes in long-term care planning
Financial planners and other general agents don’t always have access to all available options and don’t spend a lot of time learning about what new options are optimal for your situation. A Long-Term Care Insurance Specialist can better advise you on what is available for your situation. Long-term care is specific to each individual even if you are married one spouse can be better covered with a company that is different from their spouse. Only a long-term care insurance expert can help you investigate all your options. Be sure to choose a specialist that has access to all of the carriers.
3. Flexible benefits
We don’t know what healthcare will look like in 10-15 years, make sure your policy has options to pay for certified and non-certified help. When the time comes and you need care you want to be able to choose who comes into your home. Some policies have strict requirements when you need care and others are more flexible.
4. Applying when you have the best chance of qualifying
Many people think they should wait until they retire or are closer to needing care and then consider applying for coverage. But waiting can cost you, not only in the rates but the options that are available to you. Some options or extra add-ons are not offered after certain ages. The best time to apply is when your health is stable and you are within the age range that offers all options.
Be sure to talk to a Long-Term Care Insurance Specialist to discuss all of your options.
Call GoldenCare at 1-800-842-7799 or Contact Us.
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