Long-Term Care Insurance Underwriting

The underwriting criteria for Long-term Care insurance can be significantly different than for life insurance. Life insurance looks at mortality risks such as heart disease, build or lifestyle, but Long-term Care looks at mobility and cognitive issues. These factors can significantly increase the likelihood the insured will require care. The list below outlines some of the issues an underwriter will consider when evaluating a Long-term Care application:

• Cognitive Status – The applicant’s ability to think, perceive, learn, remember and acquire knowledge.

• Chronic Illness – A persistent, prolonged or continuing illness requiring long-term treatment.

• Medical History – Some medical histories may indicate a need for further care, such as those with osteoporosis or a history of falls and fractures.

• Multiple Medical Problems – Medical issues that when taken together, can significantly impact the applicant’s overall health to more of a degree than one problem alone, like diabetes with heart disease.

• Chronological vs. Physiological Age – This is if there is a significant difference between the applicant’s chronological and physiological age. An applicant may look older than the age stated on their application.

• Frailty – This factor may be a signal that relatively minor accidents and illnesses may result in major health issues later on.

Secondarily, the insurance provider will look at the following factors that may contribute to the applicant’s overall independence:

• Working full-time or part-time

• The health of the applicant’s spouse

•  Family and friends are already living in the household

• Volunteering at various clubs and/or organizations

• Participating in hobbies and activities outside the home

• The applicant’s ability to drive

• The applicant’s ability to transfer or travel without accompaniment or assistance

In many ways, Long-Term Care insurance is easier to qualify for than Life insurance. Each insurance company’s health criteria is different, so it’s important to speak with an independent broker who specializes in Long-Term Care insurance. You can also get a free, no obligation quote from our Long-Term Care Instant Quote Page, or feel free to call us at 1-866-899-4849.