The Long-Term Care Insurance Consumer Research & Learning Center was recently launched by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI) to help consumers better understand their long-term care planning options.

“Consumers who contact the Association generally fall into two categories: they either don’t know where to begin, or they have gathered information but still need help understanding their options,” explains Jesse Slome, AALTCI director emeritus. “It became clear that creating a resource addressing the most commonly asked questions would provide meaningful value.”

While traditional long-term care insurance remains an important option for many individuals and families, Slome notes that consumers increasingly want to educate themselves before speaking with an insurance professional.

“Many people want to learn more before ever contacting an insurance agent, and the internet provides the perfect opportunity to become better informed,” Slome says.

The new resource center will provide information about both traditional long-term care insurance policies and linked-benefit long-term care solutions, which combine long-term care benefits with another financial component such as life insurance or an annuity.

“We will continue adding information based on the questions consumers ask when they contact our office,” Slome adds. “Our goal is to provide objective educational resources that help people make more informed decisions.”

To access the Long-Term Care Insurance Consumer Research & Learning Center, visit: Long-Term Care Insurance Consumer Research & Learning Center

About AALTCI

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance is a leading source of consumer information, research, and education related to long-term care planning. The Association publishes its annual Long-Term Care Insurance Price Index and provides educational resources designed to help consumers better understand available long-term care insurance options and connect with qualified independent specialists.

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. — July 28, 2026 — Americans shopping for long-term care insurance could pay thousands of dollars more than necessary if they fail to compare prices from multiple insurers, according to the newly released 2026 Long-Term Care Insurance Price Index published by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI).

The Association’s annual study compares long-term care insurance premiums from leading insurers offering comparable coverage. The 2026 analysis found that premium differences remain substantial, even for applicants with similar ages, health classifications and benefit designs.

Among one comparison highlighted in the report, an Illinois couple, both age 60, purchasing identical long-term care insurance benefits could receive annual premium quotes ranging from approximately $4,591 to $7,173 depending on the insurer selected. Choosing the highest-priced policy would cost more than 56 percent above the lowest-priced option for essentially comparable protection.

“Consumers often assume long-term care insurance is priced similarly regardless of the company,” said Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. “Our annual Price Index demonstrates that comparison shopping remains one of the most effective ways to reduce premium costs while obtaining the protection families need.”

The 2026 Price Index also reports current premium benchmarks for individuals and couples purchasing traditional long-term care insurance at ages 55, 60 and 65. The report compares policies with various inflation protection options and includes new comparisons between traditional long-term care insurance and linked-benefit (hybrid) policies.

Among the findings reported:

• A 55-year-old couple purchasing $165,000 in initial benefits with 3 percent compound inflation protection can expect to pay approximately $5,010 annually.
• A 60-year-old single woman purchasing comparable protection pays an average annual premium of approximately $4,450.
• A couple, both age 65, purchasing comparable coverage with 3 percent compound inflation protection pays approximately $7,030 annually.
• Premiums vary based on age, health, state of residence, benefit design and the insurance company selected.

The report also emphasizes the long-term financial impact of inflation protection, illustrating how benefit values can grow significantly over time while also increasing premium costs.

In addition to current pricing data, the 2026 Price Index includes comparisons of traditional and linked-benefit long-term care insurance policies, consumer guidance for selecting an experienced long-term care insurance specialist, and educational information designed to help individuals better understand today’s long-term care planning options.

The complete 2026 AALTCI Long-Term Care Insurance Price Index is available on the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance website. Go to https://www.aaltci.org/2026-AALTCI-Long-Term-Care-Insurance-Price-Index/.

About AALTCI

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance is the nation’s leading source of consumer information, research and education related to long-term care planning. The Association publishes its annual Long-Term Care Insurance Price Index and provides educational resources designed to help consumers better understand long-term care insurance options and locate qualified independent specialists.

Media Contact:

Jesse Slome
Director
American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance
818-597-3227
jslome@aaltci.org

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“This is the first new traditional long-term care insurance policy introduced in quite some time,” points out Jesse Slome, director emeritus of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. “We have already received several consumer inquiries specifically asking about the policy which prompted a look at coverage and costs.”

The long-term care insurance industry expert noted several welcomed features of the CareScout Assurance policy which was initially launched in October 2025. “First, Genworth’s new individual long-term care insurance policy is currently available for sale in 40 states, with the stated ultimate goal of 50 state availability,” Slome notes.

“Genworth continues to maintain the largest in-force long-term care insurance block in the United States,” Slome points out. The company continues to cover over 1 million active LTC policyholders and, on average, distributes approximately $9.8 million in LTC benefit payments every business day.

In terms of pricing for the new CareScout policy, the Association compared costs for an average 65-year-old couple purchasing initial coverage of about $162,000 with the addition of a three percent compound inflation growth factor. Slome notes that consumers calling their offices for information typically are in their 60s or 70s.

According to the analysis, the CareScout policy would cost the 65-year-old couple, $7,385 yearly for an available pool of money equal to $233,700 at age 80. Comparable coverage from other leading long-term care insurance companies ranged from $5,882 yearly (the low) to $12,740 (the highest reported cost for comparable coverage).

“Price is important but cost alone should never be the sole factor when shopping for long-term care insurance coverage,” states Slome. “Your health is simply the most important factor when you start out because getting declined by one company can determine your ability to be insurable with others.”

To see additional information regarding the analysis, go to https://www.aaltci.org/compare-CareScout-long-term-care-insurance/index.php.

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance advocates for the importance of long-term care planning and assists consumers seeking information on the various insurance options.

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“The tax deductibility of tax-qualified long-term care insurance premiums is an incredible benefit potentially for many aging Americans,” states Jesse Slome, director emeritus of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI).

“The 2026 deductible limits are significant and few people, especially small and mid-sized business owners, are aware that premiums paid for long-term care insurance may be tax deductible.”

The just announced 2026 limit for an individual age 70 or more is $6,200, according to AALTCI. This represents a 3 percent increase from the current 2025 limit. “Many policies are purchased by couples which means they could deduct up to $12,400 next year depending on their age,” Slome explains.

Only long-term care policies that meet the federal government’s tax-qualified requirements qualify for a potential tax deduction, the long-term care insurance expert notes. “Most of the linked benefit or hybrid life insurance policies, the ones more popular today do not qualify for a possible tax benefit,” Slome explains.

“Two types of individuals can gain the most benefit from the IRS deductions,” Slome adds. “First business owners, who may be able to deduct the full cost of their insurance protection. They could even benefit by having a paid-in-full policy when they reach retirement age.”

In addition, people who have retired from jobs can benefit. “That’s when income levels enable more people to reach the required health expense threshold to make premiums deductible,” Slome acknowledges. “That potential tax deduction can be a huge benefit after retirement and something seniors should take into consideration when looking into their long-term care protection options.”

2026 Maximum Deduction Limits Long-Term Care Insurance

The following are the new 2026 deductible limits per-individual (2025 limits in brackets):

Attained Age Before Close of Taxable Year     2026 Limit    (2025)
40 or less                                                                     $500        ($480)
More than 40 but not more than 50                      $930        ($900)
More than 50 but not more than 60                   $1,860    ($1,800)
More than 60 but not more than 70                   $4,960    ($4,810)
More than 70                                                            $6,200   ($6,020)

To learn more about long-term care insurance and see a history of tax deductibility limits, go to https://www.aaltci.org/long-term-care-insurance/learning-center/tax-for-business.php.

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“Tax deductibility of tax-qualified long-term care insurance premiums remains one of the best kept secrets in financial planning,” states Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. “The 2025 deductible limits are significant and few people, especially small and mid-sized business owners, are aware that premiums paid for long-term care insurance may be tax deductible.”

The just announced 2025 limits for an individual age 70 or more is $6,020, according to AALTCI. “Most policies are purchased by couples which means they could deduct up to $12,040 next year depending on their age,” Slome explains.

Only long-term care policies that meet the federal government’s tax-qualified requirements qualify for a potential tax deduction, the long-term care insurance expert notes. “Most of the linked benefit or hybrid life insurance policies, the ones more popular today do not qualify for a possible tax benefit,” Slome notes.

“Two types of individuals can gain the most benefit from the IRS deductions,” Slome adds. “First business owners, who may be able to deduct the full cost of their insurance protection and have a paid-in-full policy when they reach retirement age.”

In addition, people who have retired from jobs can benefit. “That’s when income levels enable more people to reach the required health expense threshold to make premiums deductible,” Slome acknowledges. “That potential tax deduction can be a huge benefit after retirement and something seniors should take into consideration when looking into their long-term care protection options.”

2025 Maximum Deduction Limits Long-Term Care Insurance

The following are the new 2025deductible limits per-individual (2024 limits in brackets):

Attained Age Before Close of Taxable Year     2025 Limit (2024)
40 or less                                                                   $480  ($470)
More than 40 but not more than 50                   $900  ($870)
More than 50 but not more than 60                   $1,800  ($1,7,60)
More than 60 but not more than 70                   $4,810  ($4,710)
More than 70                                                            $6,020  ($5,880)

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance advocates for the importance of planning and supports insurance and financial professionals who provide long-term care financing solutions.  To see prior year’s long-term care insurance tax deductible limits (https://www.aaltci.org/long-term-care-insurance/learning-center/tax-for-business.php) or visit the organization’s website (https://www.aaltci.org/tax). Call 818-597-3227 to connect with a long-term care insurance professional who can provide no-obligation quotes for coverage.

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An option is what’s called short-term care insurance, now available from a number of companies. “There is currently a significant opportunity for Colorado seniors to get coverage at a significant savings,” explains Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.

Colorado Long-Term Care Plan Savings

A just concluded analysis found that a 70-year-old Colorado woman could buy coverage for less than half of what a 70-year old woman in Chicago would pay.

“Each insurer establishes their pricing and often you can find and take advantage of some significant savings,” Slome explains. The Association was looking into home care benefits. “Most seniors today want the ability to age and ultimately receive care in their own home,” Slome notes. “Indeed most long-term care is provided in the home and that’s where a home care policy can be very beneficial.”

In this particular instance, the Association was looking at a policy that provided $1,050 in weekly home care benefits for a 52 week period. “In Denver, Colorado a 70-year-old woman would pay $519 for $54,600 of potential benefits,” the Association director shares. “In Chicago, a 70-year-old woman would pay $1,133 yearly for identical coverage.”

To learn more about long-term care planning, call the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance at 818-597-3227 or visit the organization’s website at https://www.aaltci.org.

Short-Term Care Insurance (STCI) presents a more affordable alternative to traditional long-term care insurance. For many seniors in Colorado, the cost of long-term care can be prohibitive, with monthly expenses ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. STCI policies typically range from $50 to $200 per month, making them a viable option for those on a tighter budget. Additionally, STCI often has simpler qualification processes compared to long-term care insurance, which may involve extensive medical evaluations.

One significant advantage of STCI is that it usually comes with a 0-day deductible period. This means that benefits kick in immediately upon qualifying for coverage—an essential feature for seniors who may face sudden health issues or accidents requiring immediate assistance. Furthermore, STCI can complement Medicare coverage by providing additional financial support without overlapping restrictions found in traditional long-term care policies.

Many health issues requiring care are often resolved within a year; thus, STCI is tailored to meet these short-term needs effectively. It covers various services such as home health aides and nursing home stays for up to one year, ensuring that seniors receive necessary support during recovery periods without incurring overwhelming expenses.

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Almost half of Medicare beneficiaries have either one or two disabilities. The disability risk among seniors is important information for two reasons. The first is that disabilities are a key risk that aging Americans face resulting in the need for costly care. And second, because once someone has a disability, they generally can not qualify for long-term care insurance.

The latest data is highly relevant and important to share prior to turning 65 recommends the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. Living a long life means the likelihood of needing aide – and that’s where planning is important.

The data reflected seniors 65 and older who had difficulty hearing, seeing, remembering, dressing or bathing. These are Activities of Daily Living used to qualify for benefits under a traditional long-term care insurance policy.

Disability Risk Among Seniors 85-Plus

The risk of disabilities grows as one ages. Research indicates that among those aged 85 and older, approximately 25% have one disability.

Top-10 Disability Risk Among Seniors

The prevalence of disability among older adults is significantly influenced by various health conditions. As individuals age, they become more susceptible to chronic diseases and disabilities that can impact their daily functioning and quality of life. Based on the information provided, the following are the 10 leading causes of disability after age 65:

1. Arthritis or Rheumatism: This condition affects joints and connective tissues, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. It is one of the most common causes of disability in older adults.
2. Back or Spine Problems: Issues related to the back and spine, such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis, can result in chronic pain and limitations in movement.
3. Heart Trouble: Cardiovascular diseases can lead to significant functional impairments due to heart failure or other heart-related issues.
4. Lung or Respiratory Problems: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can severely limit physical activity and overall health.
5. Mental or Emotional Problems: Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can affect cognitive function and daily activities.
6. Diabetes: This metabolic disorder can lead to various complications that affect mobility and overall health.
7. Deafness or Hearing Problems: Hearing loss can impact communication abilities and social interactions, contributing to isolation and disability.
8. Blindness or Vision Problems: Visual impairments significantly affect independence and the ability to perform daily tasks safely.
9. Stroke: A stroke can lead to long-term disabilities affecting mobility, speech, and cognitive functions.
10. Cancer: Various types of cancer may cause disabilities either directly through the disease itself or indirectly through treatments that impair physical function.

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2024 Long-Term Care Insurance Claims Data

A just-published report from the Connecticut Partnership for Long-Term Care Insurance can provide some valuable insights explains Jesse Slome, director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance.

“Thankfully Connecticut remains the only state that publishes current and highly relevant data regarding long-term care insurance,” declares Jesse Slome, AALTCI director. “Information is essential to educating people about the value of this protection and reasons to consider it as part of their longevity planning. And 2024 long term care insurance claims data is unbelievably helpful to those marketing this valuable protection.”

According to Slome, the data looked at some 37,201 policies in force. “For me, the key data I look for is claimant data,” Slome explains. “People want to know if owning long-term care insurance pays. By pays, they mean, do insurers pay benefits, at what ages and how much?”

“Of the 6,878 total claimants, 60 percent represented care by a home health aide or a home visit by skilled nursing,” Slome points out. “Only 34 percent of claims were for nursing home and 29 percent for assisted living. I like to share with reporters and consumers that this is really nursing home avoidance protection and the numbers validate that.”

2024 Claims Data

Number of Policyholders who have qualified to receive benefit payments: 6,878

Gender of Claimant:  59% Female – 41 % Male

Marital Status:  51% Married – 41% Not Married – 8% Unknown

Average Age at Policy Purchase:  64

Age at Time of Claim:  Mean: 81     (Range 31  to 103)

Amount Paid To Date: Least ($19) – Most ($2,647,545)

Type of Service (top categories only)
Home Health Aide – 53%
Nursing Home – 27%
Assisted Living Facility – 29%
Skilled Nursing (Home Visit) 7%

Data from CT Partnership for Long-Term Care statistical report published September 16, 2024.

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“Women are more likely to need long-term care because they generally live longer lives,” explains Jesse Slome, AALTCI’s director. “Among women, 61% are likely to develop a chronic disability often simply due to living a long life.”

The Association director was sharing data about long-term care need and length of paid long-term care services with senior specialists who help educate consumers about the risk and need.

“Some 51 percent of women age 65 and over will need paid long-term care before they die,” Slome shared. “Meanwhile only 39 percent of men age 65 or older will need such care.”

Married people are less likely to need paid long-term care services Slome reported. “Again, it’s 51 percent of unmarried people over age 65 who will require paid long-term care in their lifetime,” Slome shared. “Whereas it’s only 43 percent for married people, part of which is likely that the healthier spouse becomes the caregiver.”

The long-term care insurance expert and advocate noted that long-term care insurance planning was off the radar during the pandemic. “We have a new generation of men and women entering the long-term care planning sweet spot. “They need information including facts and figures to understand the potential future financial risk they face,” Slome added.

To read the latest long-term care need data go to https://www.aaltci.org/long-term-care-need/.

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI) https://www.aaltci.org advocates for the importance of planning and supports insurance professionals who market both traditional and hybrid LTC solutions. Access comprehensive long-term care insurance statistics and data at https://www.aaltci.org/long-term-care-insurance/learning-center/ltcfacts-2024.php.

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“Washington’s long-term care insurance program (Washington Cares) started taxing workers this July,” explains Jesse Slome, AALTCI’s director. “This November, Washington voters are being given the choice to make the program optional and early polling shows that’s very likely to happen.”

A Cascade PBS/Elway poll conducted last month found that 47 percent of respondents would vote to repeal the program (or make it optional). “Making the Washington CARES program option basically will kill the effort as it won’t be financially viable,” Slome explains. “I’d worry that only 25 percent of those polled indicated they’d keep the program.”

Slome noted that educating the undecided will be critical to the outcome. Some 28 percent of respondents were undecided on how they would vote.

“If you are a 30-year-old healthy employee earning $150,000, voting to make the program optional adds $870 back to your annual income,” states Slome. “It would be interesting to hear what motivated one-in-four polled individuals to keep the program in place. Specifically, what messaging motivated those who are being taxed for the future benefit.”

Further data on poll participants revealed that one-in-four were age 65 or older. “These individuals likely have no financial incentive to make the program optional,” Slome admits. “Likewise, they wouldn’t benefit. But it’s commonly known that seniors vote so how this block votes could be quite significant in the outcome.” Access the full poll data here.

The long-term care insurance professional noted this would not be the first time that a long-term care insurance program was approved only to be subsequently ended. “When the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed and signed into law, it contained a national long-term care program called the CLASS Act,” Slome adds. “Suddenly one night, the administration closed the doors and subsequently the program was repealed.”

If long-term care specialists believe in the program’s value, they need to advocate on its behalf before election day. “Tell the organizations involved in legislative matters that you care about this program,” Slome advises. “Tell the insurance companies you work with so that they can work together with those supporting the program.”

“The outcome in Washington will likely impact other states considering long-term care initiatives,” Slome predicts. “Politicians carefully watch voter sentiment and if this can’t withstand resistance in a state with no state income tax, what will be its future in highly taxed states like California and New York?”

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI) https://www.aaltci.org advocates for the importance of planning and supports insurance professionals who market both traditional and hybrid LTC solutions. Access the latest long-term care insurance statistics at https://www.aaltci.org/long-term-care-insurance/learning-center/ltcfacts-2024.php.

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