Long Term Care

A major change is occurring demographically in America today. As the nation’s post-war baby boom generation enters their retirement years, more Americans are living longer than at any time in our history. In fact, the fastest growing segment of the population today is the group over age 85. As people live longer, they require more care.

Approximately seven million Americans over the age of 65 will need long-term care this year. By 2020, it is estimated that twelve million people will need such care. A study commissioned by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicates that once you reach age 65, you have a 40% lifetime risk of entering a long-term care facility. And, at any give time, approximately 22% of individuals age 85 or older are receiving long-term care in this country.

The average annual cost for nursing home care is $46,000. In many regions of the country, that amount can quickly double. The average length of time long-term care is required is two and a half years. About 10% of the people requiring care will stay in a long-term care facility for five years or longer. It is apparent that these long-term care stays can be tremendous financial burdens for most families.

In response to this growing need, the insurance industry developed long-term care insurance to protect families and estates from the impact of heavy long-term care expenses. At Robben Insurance, we represent a number of companies that offer long-term care protection for health care ranging from stays in an extended care facility to home care. If you would like more information on this important issue or would like to learn more about the protection available, please contact give us a call or send us an e-mail.