How does aging affect Critical Illness and Long Term Care?

The majority of the population of North America is approximately 50 years or older. This demographic truth increases the need for two specialized types of insurance: Critical Illness and Long Term Care.

Critical Illness Insurance Critical Illness Insurance protects your dependent(s) in the event that you suffer a disability due to a major illness such as heart attack, coronary bypass surgery, stroke,terminal cancer, blindness, paralysis, or kidney failure. It pays out a tax-free lump-sum benefit. You could clear outstanding debts such as the mortgage, finance home renovations to meet changed living access needs, or pay for specialized medical treatments not covered under your health insurance such as certain chiropractor or masseur fees. There are no restrictions on how you use the lump sum benefit. It is not based on your ability to work, even if you fully recover. Collecting the benefit will require a doctor’s statement regarding your health, and confirming that you have survived the critical illness, generally for at least 30 days.

Long Term Care Insurance Long Term Care Insurance will pay for the cost of long-term care associated with a disability or chronic illness. It covers relocation to a long-term care facility or in-home caregiver assistance. Usually, the available benefit consists of a fixed tax-free amount up to several hundred dollars per day to pay for long-term or other healthcare. As the policy’s issue age for this coverage increases, the premiums for this insurance also increase. Look for policies renewable for life that will include coverage for skilled care, intermediate care, rehabilitation centres and nursing homes. Ask if conditions such as Alzheimer’s are covered and if extended care at home is an option.