The heavy snowfall blanking the Southeastern states creates an outstanding opportunity to educate consumers about the importance of long-term care insurance planning  suggests the director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI) director.

"You have millions of older individuals who are home with little to do after they have shoveled and this is the ideal opportunity to reach out," explains Jesse Slome, director of the long-term care insurance association.   Slome sent a message to insurance professionals in affected states including South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland. 

"Start with those consumers who have previously reached out for information but failed to take action," Slome advised.  "They are now older and this is the ideal opportunity to explain that as one ages long-term care insurance costs more and one is less likely to be accepted because of existing health conditions or because one is taking more medications."

In addition, Slome noted that insurance agents should bring up the fact that there are now short-term care insurance policies that are more affordable and will accept individuals with health conditions.  "Consumers likely are unaware that these short-term care insurance policies exist and there are some excellent options available in the southeastern states," the expert added.

"While some long-term care claims can last several years, just under half end within one year, which is why a short-term care insurance policy would be suitable coverage," Slome shared with the insurance agents.  "If nothing else it gives you a good reason to call seniors in the affected states with new and relevant information that can benefit them," he adds.  "Don't use the snow to sell, use this time to educate after which sales will follow.

The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance advocates for the importance of long-term care planning and helps consumers connect with knowledgeable professionals who are independent advisors.   Consumers looking for local long-term care insurance agents or cost comparisons should visit the Association's website at www.aaltci.org or can call the organization's national headquarters at 818-597-3227.

To learn more about short term care insurance, visit the National Advisory Center for Short-Term cAre Information at www.shorttermcareinsurance.org.