How Long-Term Care Insurance Is Easing the Burden on Families, According to New Research

Caregiving for a loved one is one of life’s most emotionally challenging roles. A new study from Certification for Long-Term Care (CLTC) shows that having long-term care insurance (LTCi) can make a major difference, not only emotionally but financially as well.

What the Study Was and Who Conducted It

• The study is titled “Creating a Path Forward”.

• It was conducted by researchers from the LeadingAge LTSS Center at UMass Boston, with support from Amada Senior Care and Mutual of Omaha.

• The research included four focus groups of family caregivers, two groups whose loved ones had LTCi, and two groups whose loved ones did not.

Key Takeaways from Study

1. Financial Strain Is Much Worse Without LTC Insurance

   • Families without LTCi reported far heavier financial burdens. They had to cut work hours, retire early, or dip into retirement savings.

   • Families with LTCi described their insurance as a lifesaver. One caregiver said the policy protected them from paying more than 100,000 dollars in a single year for 24-hour care.

   • Even with LTCi, some out of pocket costs remained, such as medications and care supplies.

2. Caregiver Challenges Remain, With or Without Insurance

   • Both groups reported difficulty finding and keeping paid caregivers.

   • Caregivers with LTCi were often frustrated with agency staffing, especially frequent turnover and lack of continuity.

   • Caregivers without insurance sometimes found better matches by hiring independently through community recommendations.

3. Limited Awareness of Policy Features

   • Many caregivers with LTCi were unaware of important policy features such as respite benefits, care coordination, or caregiver training.

   • Some felt insurers were not proactive in making these benefits clear.

   • Caregivers without LTCi said that accessing public programs was confusing and often happened by chance.

4. How Caregivers Feel About LTCi and Their Own Future

   • Many caregivers whose loved ones had LTCi bought their own coverage after seeing the benefits up close.

   • Some worried that their policies might not be enough for growing care needs, or they felt confused by policy language.

   • Caregivers without LTCi liked the idea of insurance but felt held back by concerns about cost, eligibility, or lack of guidance.

   • Several expressed regret that they had not learned about LTCi earlier.

5. Planning for the Future Is Still a Major Concern

   • Both groups expressed anxiety about planning their own long-term care needs.

   • Those without LTCi said they were relying on wills, savings, or hoping for the best.

   • Even people with insurance worried about qualifying for future coverage or being able to afford rising premiums.

Why This Study Matters

The research shows something important. Long term care insurance is not just an optional luxury. It can be a financial lifeline. For families providing care, it can mean the difference between protecting their savings and facing financial hardship.

However, simply having a policy is not enough. The study found that many policyholders do not use all available benefits, education about LTCi is limited, and families often wait too long to plan.

A Call to Action, What Needs to Change

The study outlines several next steps for different groups.

Insurers

They must improve transparency, communicate benefits clearly, and guide policyholders beyond the claims process.

Policymakers

They should invest in public education about long term care planning and consider incentives that make LTCi more accessible for middle income families.

Employers

They can support employees who are caregivers by offering flexible work options and financial wellness programs.

Families

They should begin long-term care discussions early. Reviewing policies, exploring LTCi options, and being intentional about savings can make a significant difference later.

Bottom Line

Caregiving is emotionally and financially demanding in every situation. This new study from CLTC shows that long term care insurance can significantly reduce financial strain for families. It is not a perfect solution. With better education, earlier planning, and greater awareness, LTCi can bring relief and stability to many households.