The following is a true story and not a paid endorsement:

"I've been collecting from my LTC insurance policy since January 2011. It's paying beautifully and even covers the mileage charges when my caregiver transports me. I love my caregivers. This policy is making a huge difference in the quality of my life, as well as my sense of security. I am very grateful to you for selling it to me in 1998 and for still being present to answer my questions and guide me through the claims process." ~ Marienne J, Houston, TX, June 2011

Greetings, Dear Friends and Clients,

As the testimonial above indicates, Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCi) ownership provides the resources to have control, dignity, access and choices, should the need for Long-Term Care (LTC) arise.

From  www.longtermcare.gov:

"About 70 percent of people over age 65 will require some type of long-term care services during their lifetime.  Family support is a key driver in remaining in one's home and in the community, but it is not without substantial costs to the caregivers themselves, to their families, and to society."

"If you knew that you had a 70 percent chance of winning the lottery, you'd probably buy a bunch of tickets," said a colleague of mine, Deb Newman. A recent study by the LIFE Foundation  www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-show-high-long-term-care-insurance-iq-despite-low-levels-of-policy-ownership-2011-11-15 determined that the public correctly understands the high odds and the high cost of needing long-term care, as well as the fact that the government doesn't pay for the most expensive and prevalent types of long-term care. Yet few Americans own LTCi.

Although it can be difficult to have a conversation with loved ones about the high odds and high costs associated with long-term care, it is necessary if families want to ensure their options, health and wealth, in the event of a long-term care event.

Please contact me for books, links, and articles (or check out our newly redesigned website with many wonderful resources:  www.honeyleveen.com) that can assist you with this conversation.

I can't think of a better opportunity than this special time of year, when families and friends gather to count their blessings and spend precious time together, for a frank discussion of responsible long-term care planning.

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We had our most exciting Long-Term Care Awareness Month (LTCAM) this year. The purpose of LTCAM is to increase the public's awareness of the need for responsible long-term care planning. LTCAM always occurs in November. This year, Encore Caregivers hosted a free LTCAM lunch attended by about 25 professionals. They were a blend of people who work in the areas of financial services and care giving and are united in their support of LTCAM.

After the luncheon, 10 of us visited Houston City Hall, where Mayor Annise Parker and Councilmember Melissa Noreiga presented us with our third LTCAM proclamation.

Later in November, the Houston Association of Health Underwriters (HAHU) sponsored a LTCAM luncheon. We presented the LTCAM proclamation to HAHU leadership, and I also gave a one hour class on long-term care insurance.

We hope to make LTCAM bigger and better in 2012. If you are interested in creating an LTCAM program, please contact me.

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I am always available to respond to your calls and emails. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you think I may assist in any way.

My husband Jim and I wish you joy and happiness during this season, and the year to come.

Warmly,