Who's Got Your Back? A Successful Woman’s Guide to Long-Term Care Planning

As a career-driven, independent woman, you've built a life on your own terms—but have you planned for your future care? With women living longer and often lacking built-in caregivers, the need for long-term care planning is greater than ever. This blog explores why LTC matters, the financial risks of waiting, and actionable steps to secure your independence and well-being. Don't leave your future to chance—start planning today.

LONG TERM CARERETIREMENT

Nikki Caruthers

4/2/20252 min read

In today’s world, career-driven women are breaking barriers, leading industries, and redefining success on their own terms. Many are independent, without children, and some have navigated life through divorce or widowhood. While financial independence is empowering, it also comes with unique challenges—especially when it comes to planning for long-term care (LTC).

Are You Overlooking Your Future Care Needs?

Unlike past generations who may have relied on family members for support in their later years, modern independent women must proactively plan for their future care needs.

Ask yourself:

  • Who will take care of me if I need help with daily activities?

  • Do I have the financial resources to afford quality care?

  • Am I prepared for the reality that women, on average, need care for nearly 4 years, compared to just over 2 years for  men

The Hard Truth About LTC for Women

  1. Higher Likelihood of Needing Care – About 70% of individuals over 65 will require some form of LTC. Women make up nearly 68% of long-term nursing facility residents.

  2. No Built-in Caregivers – Without children or a spouse, the responsibility of care falls on you. Will you have a plan in place?

  3. Financial Impact – LTC costs are rising, and women pay higher premiums—an average of $3,700 per year for LTC insurance at age 55, compared to $2,220 for men.

  4. Independence at Risk – Without a plan, decisions about your care may be left to others or dictated by financial limitations.

Your Options – Take Control Now

Long-term care isn’t just about nursing homes. Consider:

  • In-Home Care: Maintain independence with assistance as needed.

  • Assisted Living: Support in a community setting while preserving autonomy.

  • LTC Insurance: A strategic investment to protect your financial future.

  • Hybrid Plans: Life insurance with LTC benefits for added security.

What’s Your Next Move?

  1. Assess Your Financial Standing – What can you afford, and what gaps need filling?

  2. Explore Insurance Options – Women are more likely to need paid care—will you be ready?

  3. Consult an Expert – A financial planner can help ensure you’re covered.

  4. Define Your Ideal Care Scenario – Where and how do you want to live if you need assistance?

The Time to Act is Now

It’s easy to delay thinking about long-term care, but doing nothing now can leave you vulnerable later. You’ve built a life of independence and success—don’t let a lack of planning take that away.

Stay tuned for our next article in this series, where we’ll dive into the specifics of LTC insurance and how to choose the right plan for you.

Are you truly prepared for the future? Let’s start the conversation.

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