The Risks of Needing Long-Term Care

It's Time for Peace of Mind

Here you will discover why planning for long-term care matters, what risks you face if you don’t, and how long-term care insurance can protect both your finances and your family’s well-being. You’ll also get answers to common questions about how you can reduce your future need for care, and why GoldenCare is a trusted partner to help you make the right choice.

Why Should I Even Think About Long-Term Care Now?

You might not want to imagine yourself needing help with everyday activities like bathing, dressing, or eating, but the reality is that it’s a 50/50 chance you will need long-term care at some point in your life. That’s a much higher risk than having a house fire or getting into a serious car accident.

Planning ahead gives you control. Instead of scrambling when a crisis happens, you’ll have a plan that protects your independence, your finances, and your family’s peace of mind.

Aren’t Long-Term Care Needs Only For People Over 65?

Not always. About half of the people who need long-term care today are younger than 65. Accidents, chronic illnesses, or conditions like diabetes and arthritis can happen at any age. By planning early, you prepare for the unexpected and ensure you’ll be covered if something happens before retirement.

What Factors Increase My Risk Of Needing Care?

Some risks are out of your control, but knowing them can help you plan wisely:

Family history of conditions like Alzheimer’s, stroke, or arthritis

• Age – the older you get, the higher the risk
• Gender – women generally live longer than men
• Living situation – living alone often means no built-in caregiver
• Lifestyle – poor diet, little exercise, or smoking increases risk
• Personal health history – chronic conditions or past injuries

Even if you live a healthy lifestyle, longer lifespans mean more people live into their 80s and 90s, when the need for care is more likely.

Doesn’t Medicare Cover Long-Term Care?

No, not in the way most people expect. Medicare may cover short hospital stays or limited rehabilitation services, but it does not cover custodial care – things like help with dressing, bathing, eating, or living in a nursing home long-term.

That means without a plan, you could face very high out-of-pocket costs. Long-term care insurance is designed to fill this gap and prevent your savings from being drained.

How Expensive Can Long-Term Care Really Be?

The costs can be staggering. A private room in a nursing home can run well over $100,000 a year in many areas. Even in-home care, while less expensive, can add up quickly if you need daily help. Families who don’t prepare often end up spending retirement savings or relying on children for financial and caregiving support.

How Does Long-Term Care Insurance Help Me Financially?

Long-term care insurance is protection. It helps you:

• Maintain financial independence so you don’t rely on others
• Preserve your assets like savings, retirement funds, or your home
• Avoid burdening your family with caregiving or financial stress
• Access quality care at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility

In short, insurance gives you choices. Instead of worrying about how to pay for care, you can focus on living well and enjoying time with family.

What Personal Benefits Come With Planning Ahead?

Beyond money, there’s peace of mind. With coverage in place, you know you won’t become a heavy burden on your spouse, children, or loved ones. You’ll also have the freedom to decide the type of care you prefer – whether that’s receiving help at home or choosing the best available facility.

What Can I Do Now To Lower My Chances Of Needing Care Later?

There are lifestyle choices you can make today that reduce your risk:

• Stay active with exercise to build strength, balance, and mobility
• Eat well with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Challenge your brain with reading, puzzles, or learning new skills
• Keep Up Preventive Care with regular checkups and screenings
• Adopt healthy habits like not smoking, limiting alcohol, sleeping enough, and managing stress

These steps may not remove the need for care entirely, but they can delay or reduce it, helping you stay independent longer.

When Is The Best Time To Buy Long-Term Care Insurance?

The earlier, the better. Buying coverage when you’re younger and healthier usually means lower premiums and more options. Waiting until after a diagnosis or major health issue may limit your choices or make you ineligible. Think of it like any other insurance – you hope you don’t need it soon, but it’s there if you do.

What Makes GoldenCare Different From Other Providers?

GoldenCare has been helping families with long-term care planning for 40 years. They specialize in long-term care insurance and understand the details that many general financial planners don’t.

When you work with GoldenCare:

• You’ll get advice from highly trained specialists who know the ins and outs of LTC coverage.
• You’ll see options tailored to your needs and budget – there’s no “one size fits all.”
• Even if you have existing health issues, GoldenCare can explore alternative solutions.
• You’ll have a trusted partner who puts your long-term goals first.

With GoldenCare, you don’t just buy a policy – you gain a guide who helps protect what matters most to you.

What Happens If I Don’t Plan Ahead?

If you wait until a crisis happens, you may have fewer choices. You might spend down savings quickly, limit your care options, or put pressure on your family to step in. Planning ahead lets you take control instead of reacting under stress.

Isn’t It Easier To Just “Wait And See”?

It may feel easier in the short term, but “wait and see” often leads to higher costs, fewer choices, and more stress on your loved ones. The truth is, most people over 65 will need some form of care. By planning now, you protect your family, your savings, and your independence.

Take Control Of Your Future Today

Long-term care may not be the happiest topic, but it’s one of the most important. With a 50% chance of needing care in your lifetime, planning ahead is not just smart – it’s necessary.

By working with GoldenCare, you can protect your finances, ease the burden on your family, and make sure you receive the kind of care you want. Don’t leave your future to chance.

Call GoldenCare today at 888-825-0231 to speak with a Long-Term Care Specialist. There’s no obligation – just peace of mind waiting for you.