Who Qualifies for Long Term Care Insurance
Who qualifies for long term care insurance? Most applicants between ages 40 and 75 in reasonably good health may qualify for coverage. Approval depends on your age, medical history, and ability to perform basic daily activities. At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we guide retirees through the underwriting process to maximize approval odds and match you with the carriers most favorable to your situation.
Check Your LTC Eligibility
Find out if you qualify for affordable long term care coverage from top-rated carriers.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Most applicants apply between ages 50 and 70, though coverage may be available into the mid-70s.
- Health Status: Applicants should generally be in fair to good health without severe chronic conditions.
- Daily Living Activities: You must be able to perform basic tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating independently at the time of application.
- Underwriting: Carriers review medical history, prescription use, height/weight, and recent doctor visits.
Medical Conditions That Affect Eligibility
Each insurance company has its own underwriting rules, but here are some common conditions and how they may impact approval:
| Condition | Eligibility Outlook |
|---|---|
| High Blood Pressure / Cholesterol | Usually approved if well-managed |
| Type 2 Diabetes | Often approved if controlled, higher risk if insulin-dependent |
| Obesity | May impact eligibility if severe |
| History of Cancer | Approved if in remission for several years |
| Dementia / Alzheimer’s | Generally declined |
| Stroke / Severe Neurological Issues | Often declined depending on severity |
How to Improve Your Chances of Approval
- ✅ Apply earlier, while you’re in good health
- ✅ Work with an independent broker who knows carrier guidelines
- ✅ Provide complete, accurate health information upfront
- ✅ Consider hybrid LTC or annuity-based policies if traditional LTC is unavailable
Why Work With Diversified Insurance Brokers?
Since 1980, Diversified Insurance Brokers has specialized in helping retirees qualify for and secure affordable long term care protection. We know which carriers are most favorable for specific health conditions and can guide you toward the right fit. Learn more about long term care insurance or explore annuities with LTC riders as an alternative solution.
See If You Qualify for LTC Insurance
Get expert help navigating the underwriting process and compare quotes tailored to your health profile.
FAQs: Who Qualifies for Long Term Care Insurance
What is the typical age range to qualify for LTC insurance?
Most applicants are between ages ~50-70. Coverage may also be available into the mid-70s depending on health and insurer.
How does health status affect eligibility?
Applicants generally need to be in fair to good health. Severe chronic conditions, impairments, or inability to perform daily activities may restrict eligibility or require alternatives.
What daily living abilities matter?
You must be able to perform basic tasks—like bathing, dressing, eating—independently at the time of application.
Which medical history items do insurers review?
They look at your medications, recent doctor visits, prescription use, height/weight, past diseases, and how well conditions are managed (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.).
Which conditions may make qualifying more difficult?
Conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s, severe neurological issues, recent strokes, or poor recovery from such events may lead to decline or higher risk rating. Other conditions (e.g. cancer in remission, type 2 diabetes under control) are often considered if well managed.
What can I do to improve my chances of approval?
Apply earlier while in good health; provide complete and accurate medical history; work with brokers who know which carriers favor your condition; consider hybrid or annuity-based policies if traditional LTC isn’t an option.
Are hybrid LTC / annuity-based policies alternatives?
Yes. If you don’t qualify for traditional LTC under favorable terms, hybrid or annuity-with-LTC riders may provide options, sometimes with more lenient underwriting.
