Less Policies Bought: The recent trend is for consumers to buy fewer long term care insurance policies. For those that are still buying them, the policies cover fewer years, provide less coverage, and do not have inflation riders.
Reason: Higher Premium and Uncertain Need. The reason for this decline is most likely the steep increase in premiums for long term care insurance policies. Premiums on existing policies may be rising as much as 25-50% per annum. Premiums for new policies may range anywhere between $2,000 - $6,000 per year. Since a lot of people are unsure that they will ever need long term care coverage, they are reluctant to pay these high premiums for uncertain benefits.
Different Options Available: There are policies available that combine the benefits of a regular life insurance policy with the benefits of long term care polices. In these policies, the money can be used EITHER for long term care, or, if long term care is not needed, the policy will pay out a death benefit to the beneficiaries. This way, the insured should not feel that he is throwing out good money for something that he may never need, yet he can feels protected that he will have available long term care coverage.
Disclaimer: This article only offers general information. Each situation is unique. It is always helpful to talk to a specialized attorney, to figure out your various options and ramifications of actions. As every case has subtle differences, please do not use this article for legal advice. Only a signed engagement letter will create an attorney-client relationship.