As December unfolds, the warmth of holiday gatherings and family reunions often highlights what matters most: the health, happiness, and well-being of the people you love. While the season is filled with festive moments, it also provides a quiet opportunity to reflect on the future. Beyond the twinkling lights and cheerful music, the end of the year encourages you to think about how to protect your family’s security and independence—even in the face of life’s unexpected turns.  One gift that can have a lasting impact on your family’s future is long-term care (LTC) insurance. Although discussing future care needs may feel out of step with the holiday cheer, December is actually an ideal time to consider this coverage. Surrounded by loved ones, you have a natural opening to talk about tomorrow’s possibilities, ensuring everyone’s comfort and dignity remain intact as the years progress. 

Why LTC Insurance Matters in December 

The holiday season’s gatherings often bring multiple generations together, making it easier to recognize changes in health, mobility, or cognition among older family members. Observing these subtle shifts now—rather than during a crisis—allows for proactive planning. LTC insurance offers financial support for services that health insurance and Medicare typically don’t cover, including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing home stays.  By starting a conversation in December, you can: 

  1. Take Advantage of the Family Connection

When everyone is under one roof, it’s easier to have open, honest discussions. Talk about what long-term care might look like—whether it’s receiving help with day-to-day activities at home or eventually transitioning to a specialized care facility. Understanding preferences now ensures that future decisions align with your loved ones’ wishes. 

  1. Align Coverage with Future Goals

As the year ends, many families review their finances and set goals for the coming year. Adding LTC insurance to this conversation allows you to strategize for long-term expenses alongside other financial considerations, such as retirement accounts or life insurance policies. 

  1. Avoid Last-Minute Scrambles

Waiting until a care need arises can force hasty decisions, often at higher costs. LTC insurance purchased proactively provides flexibility and choice, giving you time to research care providers, discuss options, and select services that maintain quality of life. 

How LTC Insurance Supports Peace of Mind 

Long-term care insurance policies are designed to cover a range of services that help individuals maintain independence and dignity as they age or cope with chronic health conditions. This includes in-home care—allowing your family members to stay where they feel most comfortable—and facility-based services for those requiring more intensive support. By funding these services, LTC insurance shields personal savings, protecting family assets that might otherwise be depleted by care costs.  In addition, LTC insurance can ease the emotional burden on relatives who might otherwise step in as caregivers. This kind of coverage helps ensure that professional, trained staff handle daily tasks, reducing stress on family members and allowing them to focus on emotional support rather than constant hands-on care. 

Tying LTC Insurance into Your Year-End Planning 

December is the perfect time to review your financial landscape and incorporate LTC insurance into a comprehensive plan. Beyond LTC coverage, Pinney Insurance offers a range of products—from life insurance to annuities and Medicare supplements—that together create a robust, future-focused strategy.  By approaching LTC decisions now, you set the stage for a confident start to the new year. Your future self—and your family—will be grateful you took the time amid the holiday rush to secure peace of mind. 

A Lasting Gift for Your Family’s Future 

While the season is known for gift exchanges and New Year’s resolutions, consider making an investment that outlasts any gadget or trend. LTC insurance is a meaningful contribution to your family’s long-term security and comfort. It ensures that as life unfolds, you’re not caught off guard by unexpected care needs or financial strain.  At Pinney Insurance, we’re here to guide you through LTC options, discuss policy features, and help you tailor a solution that fits your family’s unique needs. By acting this December, you give yourself—and those you love—the enduring gift of stability and reassurance. Instead of simply celebrating a season, you’ll be celebrating a future protected by thoughtful, proactive planning. 

How Much Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cost? 

The cost of long-term care insurance (LTCI) varies widely depending on factors such as age, health, location, and the level of coverage chosen. On average, a 55-year-old individual purchasing a new policy in 2024 might pay around $2,200 to $2,700 annually for a policy offering $165,000 in initial benefits, which grows over time with inflation protection. For couples, the average combined annual premium could range from $3,400 to $5,000, depending on shared benefits and coverage options.  Premiums also differ across states due to variations in the cost of care and state-specific regulations. For instance: 
  • In California, premiums may be higher because of the state's higher cost of living and care facilities. 
  • In Florida, costs might vary widely depending on proximity to urban centers with more extensive care options. 
  • In Texas, where care costs are generally lower, premiums could be slightly more affordable. 

Key Factors Impacting LTC Insurance Costs: 

  1. Age at Purchase: Younger applicants typically pay lower premiums. Waiting until your 60s or 70s can result in significantly higher costs. 
  1. Health Conditions: Pre-existing conditions may lead to higher premiums or even denial of coverage. 
  1. Coverage Options: Policies with inflation protection, longer benefit periods, or higher daily benefit limits will cost more. 
For example, a healthy 55-year-old couple selecting a policy with inflation protection and a benefit pool of $500,000 may see annual premiums ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 in states like Illinois or Pennsylvania (Source: American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance). In contrast, basic policies without inflation protection might start closer to $1,500 annually per person.  It’s important to review state-specific costs and tailor your policy to your budget and future care needs. Resources like the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) or consultations with a trusted insurance agent can provide more personalized estimates.   

Ready to Learn More? 

Contact Pinney Insurance today to explore how LTC insurance can help safeguard your loved ones’ future. Let’s make this December a time not just of holiday warmth, but of lasting financial security.