Insurance May Ease Burden Of Long Term Care. What To Look For In A Policy.     By Mark Widloski.

• The younger and healthier you are when you buy it, the less it may cost. To control costs, purchase a policy that is guaranteed renewable for life.
  
• Read the policy carefully to determine whether there are exclusions. When considering the level of coverage needed, base your decision on the cost of care in your area. The average cost varies based on the level of care and geographic location. The policy should also compensate for inflation.
  
• A policy with unlimited days and unlimited stays may be expensive. Whether it's worth the cost depends on individual circumstances and should be considered carefully.
  
• Also check what kind of care is covered.  Some policies cover only facility care, some cover only home health care and some cover both. Ideally, the policy should cover custodial care in your home and care in an assisted living facility, an adult day care center and a nursing home.
  
• One way to reduce costs is to extend the period before benefits begin. Make certain you can afford to pay for care during the elimination period (waiting period). Most insurers offer a waiver of premiums beginning 60 to 90 days after the policyholder receives the first benefit payment and some waive premiums as soon as benefits begin. It's best to seek assistance from your financial and legal advisers before purchasing coverage.

Mark Widlowski is a representative with John Hancock Atlanta General Agency, 400 Perimeter Center Terraces, Suite 50, Atlanta, GA30346 and can be reached at 678-338-4438 or mwidlowski@jhnetwork.com.