Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance: A Family Guide
By Companions Plus Home Care
Long-term care insurance can cover in-home care, but navigating the process can be confusing. Here's what families need to know.
What Is Long-Term Care Insurance?
Long-term care (LTC) insurance is designed to cover the cost of care services that traditional health insurance and Medicare don't — including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing home care.
If your loved one has a policy, it can be a lifeline that makes professional home care affordable.
Does It Cover In-Home Care?
Yes, in most cases. Most LTC policies cover:
- Home health aides
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting)
- Homemaker services (meal prep, light housekeeping)
- Companion care
However, coverage details vary by policy. It's important to review the specific terms.
What Are the Key Terms to Know?
Benefit Amount: The daily or monthly maximum the policy will pay (e.g., $150/day).
Benefit Period: How long the policy will pay benefits (e.g., 2 years, 3 years, or lifetime).
Elimination Period: A waiting period (like a deductible) before benefits begin — typically 30, 60, or 90 days. During this time, the family pays out of pocket.
Inflation Protection: A feature that increases the benefit amount over time to keep up with rising care costs. This is one of the most important features in a policy.
How Do You File a Claim?
- Contact the insurance company — Request a claim form and ask about their specific process.
- Get a care assessment — Most insurers require an assessment by a licensed professional to confirm the need for care. This is usually based on needing help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and continence.
- Submit documentation — The care agency provides care plans, invoices, and progress notes.
- Complete the elimination period — Pay privately during the waiting period before benefits kick in.
How We Help
At Companions Plus Home Care, we work directly with long-term care insurance providers to:
- Verify your coverage and benefits
- Handle the paperwork and claim submission
- Provide the documentation insurers require
- Coordinate payment directly with the insurance company
You shouldn't have to navigate insurance paperwork while worrying about your loved one's care. That's why we handle the administrative burden for you.
Don't Have LTC Insurance?
If your family doesn't have a long-term care policy, private pay is the most common option for home care. We offer flexible, affordable care plans — from a few hours a week to 24/7 live-in care.
Call (561) 495-4771 to discuss your options. We'll help you find a care solution that fits your family's needs and budget.
Have Questions About Senior Care?
Our care team is available 24/7 to help your family find the right support.