What You Need to Know
Is the security of long-term care insurance worth the expense? Here’s what you need to know.

By Barbara Basler
Originally published on AARP Bulletin Online in December 2006

return to article Long-term care insurance: Can you afford it? sound off: what is your long-term health care plan?

1.	The best policies are flexible, allowing you to use your benefits for a range of services from home care aides to care in a nursing facility. Only about 4 percent of the current population over age 65 lives in a nursing home. The average stay there is 2.5 years.
2.	Long-term care policies offer a maximum daily payment for a fixed period of time. Most people opt for one to six years. Some experts say three years is adequate. Those with a family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia may want to consider lifetime coverage if they can afford it.

Read the full article at AARP Bulletin Online.

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