Long-Term Care Costs Vary Greatly By State and Type

One thing we know today is the cost of long-term health care is expensive. However, according to cost-of-care surveys, there are variations in the prices of care services based on location, level of care, and amenities, and these differences are staggering.

The LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator details the median averages of all types and levels of long-term health care. This calculator is a great tool to help you find quality care and compare the costs you are quoted for a loved one's care to the average. The calculator is also a great planning tool to determine the future financial impact of long-term care services and how best to plan for these costs.

For example, the national median annual cost of a private room in a nursing home is $105,355, according to the LTC NEWS calculator. 

However, in Alaska, that same service costs a recipient $300,310, among the highest in the nation. By comparison, in Oklahoma, someone who wanted the same long-term care option would only need to pay a median cost of $70,215, or about one-fourth as much as in Alaska.

Luckily, most long-term care services are delivered at home or assisted living, and those costs are generally less. Less, true, cheap? No.

The LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator shows the median averages for home care, adult day care, assisted living, and nursing homes. These costs are also broken down based on each state's major metro areas. 

Again, this calculator, or any calculator, is a planning tool. Many factors go into the actual cost of long-term health care. You can count on the fact that long-term care services are getting more expensive in the years ahead and are not paid for by traditional health insurance or Medicare.

Cost of Care is Increasing Year After Year

Every survey shows the cost of care is increasing every year. Many factors are driving these higher costs. Higher demand for care, inflation, and rising labor costs are all involved. 

Since these factors differ from one place to another, the cost of care varies by location.

Advance Planning is Key to a Successful Future Retirement

Planning experts suggest that if you have assets to protect, Long-Term Care Insurance should be part of your retirement plan. The cost of care, especially in one's home or assisted living, which most people need as opposed to a nursing home, should be factored into the benefit structure of any policy a consumer may purchase.

Since most care is not provided in a nursing home, insurance experts recommend insuring for the most likely need, home care or assisted living. Since Long-Term Care Insurance is custom designed, you can determine how much your policy will pay for future care. 

Another consideration is the ever-increasing cost of care. Since most people obtain coverage in their 50s, inflation benefits become very important.

The problem with long-term care is it is both a cash flow issue and a family issue. Unless you plan ahead for your family and finances will be impacted. 

Jesse Slome, the executive director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI), a national consumer advocacy group, says there are several ways to save on policies.

Today's Long-Term Care insurance policy is quite different from the coverage offered a decade ago. Insurers today offer a number of features and options that are not just extremely beneficial to consumers but can significantly reduce the cost.

Consumers can select monthly or daily benefits, inflation options, and other available riders. All of these factors, including your age and health, will determine the cost of a Long-Term Care Insurance policy.

What Are Riders In Long-Term Care Insurance?

A Qualified Long-Term Care Specialist Can Design an Affordable Plan

Many things go into a Long-Term Care Insurance policy -- and several types of policies to choose from. Although LTC Insurance is highly regulated. Every insurance company must file its products and pricing with the state's insurance department.

What Types Of Long-Term Care Insurance Policies are Available and Which Is Best For You?

Many specialists recommend a plan that makes a catastrophic situation manageable. They typically will determine your future income streams and asset levels to make appropriate recommendations.

Health is one of the primary factors to determine eligibility for coverage and cost. In the process of underwriting, an insurance company will determine if an applicant is eligible to get coverage and at what rate class.

Most specialists will ask detailed health and family history questions before making any recommendations. Underwriting varies between insurance companies.

What is Underwriting? How Does Current Health Impact Ability to Obtain Long-Term Care Insurance?

A Long-Term Care Insurance specialist is essential to assist in designing an appropriate plan. The AALTCI suggests working with a specialist with substantial experience who works with multiple top-rated insurance companies.

After asking detailed questions, a Long-Term Care Insurance specialist can provide accurate quotes from all the top companies, along with professional recommendations.

Premiums can vary over 100% between insurance companies. Shopping with a specialist will save you money and give you peace of mind.

Money is important, but remember, long-term care will also impact your family. You might want to protect your 401(k) and other savings from the rising cost of long-term care, but when you have a policy in place, your family can concentrate on being family instead of becoming your caregiver.

Premiums are less expensive when you are younger and enjoy good health - How Much Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cost?

Aging is happening every day. Your health, body, and mind will change with age. Make sure to consider your options when you still have options to consider.