One of the greatest fears among seniors is having to move to a nursing home. In fact, a study reports that seniors fear nursing homes more than they fear death. They don’t want to lose their independence.
And the majority of family members polled have serious concerns about their loved one suffering from neglect or mistreatment in nursing homes.
When I began selling LTCi in the late-1980s, assisted living was a new industry and facilities were hard to find. Most long term care took place in nursing homes or at home. In those days, some LTCi policies did not include assisted living coverage because it was so unknown.
Well, I’ve got some good news to share!
LTCi Can Keep People Out of Nursing Homes
Things are very different today. The 2019 Millman Long Term Care Insurance Survey is out, reporting on the current landscape of the LTCi landscape. It contains lots of good news for LTCi policyholders.
In 2013, 60% of policyholders avoided nursing homes. In 2017, only 30% of LTCi claims were for nursing homes.
People being cared for in assisted living live longer than in any other setting. LTCi claims for assisted living are now the longest and most expensive claims paid.
I expect this significant drop in nursing home admissions to continue. At least for those who are protected by their long term care insurance. Today, every traditional LTCi policy on the market will cover assisted living. This was not true years ago. Assisted living is now mainstream, popular, rapidly growing, and profitable. Happily, there are so many more choices are available.
Claims Are Getting Paid and In Record Time
The good news continues!
In 2017, payments to LTCi policyholders came to $11 billion for claims. This is a 55.9% increase in claim payments in the previous year. And claims are being paid 8% faster which means families are getting relief in a more timely manner. Expect this trend to continue.
Remember, LTCi ownership is a “long” game. The average age of LTCi purchase is 57. However, people don’t usually need to file a claim until they’re in their late 70s or well into their 80s. People who buy LTCi are realists, willing to plan for a future that’s years away.
If you’re someone who enjoys reading detailed insurance analysis, you can find the full report by clicking the image, below. And if you’re someone who likes planning for an easier future, click here to receive your free, no-obligation for long term care insurance coverage.
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