Amazement. That is the word used by one of the nation's leading experts on long-term care planning when it comes to knowledge of the Long-Term Care Partnership Program.

"I am amazed by the number of financial planners and general insurance agents that don't explain the huge benefits offered by 45 states. Partnership certified Long-Term Care Insurance offers additional asset protection above and beyond the benefits from these special insurance policies. Yet, they continue to think about Long-Term Care Insurance as if its 1999," said Matt McCann, a well-known speaker and specialist on Long-Term Care Insurance and planning for longevity.

McCann, speaking to insurance agents on an industry conference call, said it's not 1999 and we need to help American families plan for the financial costs and burdens of aging.

"We must have 20/20 vision. Too many professionals in the financial industry have old information. They think about the old legacy policies. They don't understand the major advancements for consumers that will help them safeguard savings and income and reduce the stress and burdens otherwise placed on their family," McCann said.

Today's Long-Term Care Insurance is affordable and rate stable. Most states have rate stabilization rules which make it much more difficult to raise premiums on new policies. Plus, 45 states since 2006 have implemented the Long-Term Care Insurance Partnership Program. These insurance policies provide the policyholder additional dollar-for-dollar asset protection. In the event they ever exhaust benefits from their policy they are able to shelter part of their estate, based on the total amount of benefits paid by the policy, and still access the Medicaid long-term care benefit.

Medicaid normally will only pay for long-term care services if you have little or no assets and income. However, with a Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance policy, you will enjoy substantial asset protection without having to purchase a very large policy.

"An experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist will design a plan specifically designed for the individual. Policy design is based on age, health, family history, and the amount of assets the family wishes to protect. Since Long-Term Care Insurance is custom designed, a specialist can make sure the consumer doesn't buy more coverage than they need," McCann explained.

McCann said there are unlimited long-term care benefits still available for those with substantial assets to protect. Asset-based "hybrid" plans combine life insurance or annuities with a rider for long-term care. These policies are not partnership certified but still, for some people, be an ideal solution. Limited duration plans are also available for those who are older or may have some health issues.

"The challenges of longevity must be planned for, ideally prior to retirement. However, Long-Term Care Insurance is more than just about protecting assets. It is all about family. This is another area a financial advisor often doesn't consider. Caregiving is hard on loved ones and it often has a physical, emotional and even financial impact on an individual's children and their families. Policies give the family the time to be family. Yes, asset protection is essential. However, reducing the stress and burden on those you love is also very important," McCann said.

McCann assists consumers nationwide using a unique method where he speaks with a consumer on the telephone while viewing his computer screen on their computer. This provides a pressure-free way to learn about these products and their various options available from the many companies available. He also works with many financial advisors helping them assist their clients.

McCann recommended both individuals and financial professions start their research to find about the options in their state, including the current and future cost of care, availability of partnership policies, tax incentives, and more. He recommends this link for information:  https://www.ltcnews.com/resources/states/compare

Consumers can learn more about long-term care planning at https://mccannltc.net/resources/faq. On his website, there is a link to obtain free quotes from all the major companies.