Welcome to a crucial conversation on the Caregiver Relief Podcast! Host Diane Carbo, RN, sits down with long-term care planning expert Matt McCann to discuss a topic that impacts every family: preparing for long-term care. With over 25 years of experience and a powerful personal story, Matt offers a compassionate, real-world perspective on protecting your family, assets, and peace of mind.

In this episode, we explore:

• Matt's Journey 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: Matt shares the personal story that shaped his career—caring for his mother who needed long-term care at age 59. This firsthand experience gives him a unique and empathetic perspective on the emotional and financial challenges families face.

• Debunking Myths 💡: We tackle the biggest misconceptions about long-term care. Matt clarifies that most long-term care is not provided in a nursing home and that long-term care insurance can be surprisingly affordable. He exposes how misleading information can cause people to delay planning.

• The Perils of Medicare Advantage 💸: Diane and Matt highlight the hidden dangers of Medicare Advantage plans, including high co-pays and unsafe discharges, which are creating a crisis for many families. They stress the importance of understanding your options and maintaining control over your healthcare decisions.

• Protecting Your Future 🛡️: What's the difference between traditional long-term care policies and hybrid plans? Matt breaks it down, explaining why a cost-of-living rider is an essential feature to prevent your benefits from being devalued over time. He also sheds light on the Long-Term Care Partnership Program, which provides dollar-for-dollar asset protection.

• The Filial Responsibility Trap 📜: Diane brings up the little-known filial responsibility laws in 26 states that can make adult children financially liable for their parents' care, adding a new layer of urgency to the planning conversation.

• Choosing a Specialist ✅: Not all insurance agents are created equal. Matt provides a clear guide on how to find a true long-term care specialist. He outlines the key questions you must ask to ensure you receive a personalized, honest, and experienced consultation.

  
  

This episode is a call to action. Long-term care planning isn't just about insurance; it's about being prepared for life, safeguarding your independence, and giving your loved ones the freedom to be family.

Connect with Us:

• Join our community: https://www.google.com/search?q=community.caregiverrelief.com

• Visit our website: caregiverrelief.com

• Find Matt McCann: radioltc.com

  
  

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