Who needs care?

70% of people turning age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives. There are a number of factors that affect the possibility that you will need care:

Age

The older you are, the more likely you will need long-term care.

Gender

Women outlive men by about five years on average, so they are more likely to live at home alone when they are older.

Disability

Having an accident or chronic illness that cuases a disability is another reason for needing long-term care.

Between ages 40 and 50, on average, eight percent of people have a disability that could require long-term care services.

69 percent of people age 90 or older have a disability.

Health Status

Chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure make you more likely to need care.

Your family history such as whether your parents or grandparents had chronic conditions, may increase your likelihood.

Poor diet and exercise habits increase your chances of needing long-term care.

Living Arrangements

If you live alone, you're more likely to need paid care than if you're married, or single and living with a partner.