Health insurance & costsLiving with chronic illnessGeneral wellnessSenior health

What you need to know about long-term care insurance

Most of us will experience a disability or chronic illness at some point in our lives. This coverage can help.


LearnHealth insuranceWhat you need to know about long-term care insurance
What long-term care insurance pays for
Who needs long-term care coverage
The right time to buy a plan
How much it costs
Why you need a policy

1 of 6

Long-term care (LTC) insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for personal care services in the event you or your spouse are diagnosed with a disability or chronic illness, which many of us will be during our lifetime. In fact, almost 7 in 10 seniors will require long-term care at some point. While policies differ, this insurance can offset the exorbitant costs of your individual daily needs, whether you reside in your home or in a facility. Here's what you need to know about the benefits.

Written by Amy Capetta.
Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.June, 2024
Updated onAugust, 2026
Written by Amy Capetta.
Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.June, 2024
Updated onAugust, 2026
AskMDAskMD

Want to learn about Health insurance & costs?

Get instant answers from our AI health assistant

Ask Now

Recommended for you

Learn about the importance of planning for future healthcare needs and the financial implications of long-term care.

Do I need long-term care insurance?
Video

Understand the basics so you can get the coverage you want.

What is Medicare? 4 essential questions, answered
Article

Knowing the basics of a policy can help keep your confusion—and payments—to a minimum.

How to make sense of your health insurance coverage
Article

It's a product that provides financial security for your family. Here's what you need to know.

What is life insurance?
Article

Learn what life insurance is designed to protect and explore scenarios where it may not be necessary.

How do I know if I need life insurance?
Video
AskMDHow can I be more consistent?
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.

ask-mdask-md
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.