As America starts its 250th year, freedom means more for older Americans who face dependency. Protecting the freedom to choose care has become one of the defining financial and personal challenges facing aging Americans.

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, the meaning of independence extends far beyond the nation's founding ideals. For millions of older Americans, independence increasingly means maintaining the freedom to choose where to live, how to receive extended care, and how to avoid placing emotional and financial burdens on loved ones.

Matt McCann, CLTC, a nationally known long-term care planning expert, says that longer lives represent one of modern medicine's greatest achievements. However, longevity creates new challenges for American families and finances.

"Celebrating America at 250 reminds us of what freedom really means," McCann said. "For older Americans and their families, that freedom and independence are eroded by dependence on others."

People require greater dependence on others due to chronic illness, accidents, mobility challenges, dementia, and frailty. Long-term care is primarily help with everyday living activities or supervision due to declining memory. McCann says that when you or a loved one needs help, you become dependent on others for things you take for granted today.

"Nobody wants to lose control of their own life because of a health or aging event. Most people don't want to place all that burden on thieir loved ones, nor do they wnat to change their lifestyle and legacy to pay for the rising cost of extended care services. Planning ahead is how you protect that independence." — Matt McCann, CLTC.

Over 50% of those who reach age 65 will need long-term care services. As people live longer, more of them will suffer from some type of dementia. The Alzheimer's Association's 2026 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures report estimates that 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease today. That number is projected to increase to 13.8 million by 2060.

McCann says this is a real problem that, if ignored, will create dependence on the people we love the most. Health insurance, including Medicare, only covers short-term skilled care, not long-term care.

"Most people would rather think it will never happen to them; however, when it does, the consequences are life-changing. When someone has Long-Term Care Insurance, they will have guaranteed tax-free resources to pay for the care they choose in the setting they prefer, including at home. They remain in control." — Matt McCann, CLTC.

McCann says Long-Term Care Insurance is affordable for many people, especially when you apply for LTC Insurance coverage before retirement. No matter your age, McCann says finding affordable options requires an expert. He recommends working with a qualified LTC Insurance specialist, like himself, to help them shop for and find affordable options from top-rated insurance companies offering long-term care solutions.

"I see people with Long-Term Care Insurance use their benefits, and I assist their families in utilizing their benefits. Family members are always appreciative of receiving professional help without having to use a loved one's money to pay for it." — Matt McCann, CLTC.

If a loved one has an LTC policy and it is time to get them quality care, McCann says to access the policy benefits sooner rather than later. McCann notes that LTC News partners with Amada Senior Care to provide free claim support with no cost or obligation — File a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim.

About Matt McCann, CLTC

Matt McCann, CLTC, has spent nearly 30 years helping American families prepare for the costs and burdens of aging. As one of the nation's most respected long-term care planning specialists, he is licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and represents the industry's leading insurance carriers offering long-term care solutions.

McCann's approach is personal, transparent, and pressure-free. His innovative approach allows you to consult with him over the phone while he shares his screen, ensuring a convenient, transparent process for learning about, exploring, and selecting the best options.

You can start the process and get free and accurate quotes from all the top companies — plus professional recommendations — by visiting Free and Accurate LTC Insurance Quotes.

Media Availability

Matt McCann, CLTC, is a trusted, frequently quoted voice on aging, caregiving, and long-term care. With nearly three decades of experience, he brings clear, practical insight to conversations about how families can prepare for the financial and emotional realities of extended care.

McCann is available for interviews, expert commentary, radio, podcasts, webinars, and panel discussions. He regularly collaborates with journalists, producers, and conference organizers seeking authoritative perspectives on long-term care trends, policy developments, caregiving challenges, and the future of aging in America.

Contact McCann through his website for information.