Short-Term Care Insurance

Kingspointe Consulting helps protect you and your family through Short-Term Care Insurance.

Preparing for the Unforseen

Short-term care insurance helps cover the cost of care when you need assistance with daily activities, such  as bathing, dressing, or eating, due to a temporary illness, injury, or recovery period. It’s designed to provide benefits for a limited time, helping fill gaps where Medicare or traditional health insurance may offer only partial coverage, particularly for services like in-home care or short-term facility stays.


With healthcare costs continuing to rise, this type of coverage can help protect your savings while giving you and your family more flexibility in how and where you receive care during recovery.

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Why Short-Term Care Insurance Matters

Care needs don’t always last for years—but even shorter recovery periods can create significant financial and emotional strain. Whether it’s recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, the cost of care can add up quickly.


Many people assume Medicare or traditional health insurance will cover extended care needs, but coverage is often limited and may not include services like in-home assistance or extended stays in care facilities. As a result, many families end up paying out of pocket.


Short-term care insurance is designed to help cover care for a limited period (typically up to 12 months) providing support when you need it most without committing to the cost of a long-term care policy.


Having short-term care coverage may help you:


  • Reduce out-of-pocket costs during recovery or rehabilitation
  • Maintain independence with access to home care services
  • Protect savings intended for retirement or other goals
  • Ease the caregiving burden on family members
  • Bridge gaps where traditional health coverage may fall short


Because underwriting is often less restrictive than long-term care insurance, some individuals may find it easier to qualify—though eligibility and benefits vary by policy.

What Short-Term Care Insurance Covers

Coverage can vary by carrier and plan, but many short-term care insurance policies may include:


  • Home health care services
  • Assisted living or short-term facility stays
  • Skilled nursing care for a limited duration
  • Rehabilitation services following illness or injury
  • Adult day care or respite care


Benefits are typically paid on a daily or weekly basis, up to a defined maximum benefit period. Policies may also include a short elimination (waiting) period before benefits begin.



While short-term care insurance generally offers lower premiums than long-term care insurance, it also provides coverage for a shorter duration. Choosing the right plan depends on your health, budget, and overall care planning strategy.

Why Long-Term Care Insurance Matters

The average cost for a room in a skilled nursing facility exceeds $100,000 per year — and these costs are rising rapidly. Many people assume Medicare or traditional health insurance will cover long-term care, but coverage is usually very limited. That means most of those expenses would fall on you or your family. Without insurance, your retirement savings and other assets could be depleted within just a few years.


Having long-term care coverage helps you:

  • Avoid relying entirely on your children or loved ones for caregiving
  • Protect your retirement savings and assets
  • Have more control over your care decisions
  • Reduce emotional and financial stress on your family
  • Plan for the reality that nearly 70% of people turning 65 will need long-term care at some point, with 20% needing it for longer than five years


The earlier you buy coverage — ideally while you're younger and healthier — the more affordable it may be.

What Long-Term Care Insurance Covers

Policies vary, but most long-term care insurance plans include:


  • Home care services by a licensed care provider
  • Assisted living facilities
  • Skilled nursing facility stays
  • Memory care for Alzheimer’s or dementia
  • Respite care, caregiver training, or care coordination


Policies typically reimburse you for services up to a daily or monthly benefit limit, after a short waiting period. Many also offer inflation protection, so your benefits can keep pace with rising care costs. Note that location matters; the cost of care can vary widely depending on where you live or plan to retire. We’ll help you estimate the coverage amount that fits your needs and region.

Short-Term Care Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I consider short-term care insurance?

    It may be worth exploring if you want coverage for temporary care needs or are not eligible for traditional long-term care insurance.

  • What if my care needs last longer than expected?

    Short-term care policies have benefit limits. It’s important to understand how long coverage lasts and how it fits into your broader financial plan.

  • Does Medicare cover short-term care?

    Medicare may cover certain medically necessary services for a limited time, but it typically does not cover extended custodial care.

  • How much coverage do I need?

    This depends on your anticipated care needs, local care costs, and financial situation. Give us a call and we can help you select the right plan.

  • Can couples apply together?

    Some insurers offer options for couples, though availability and discounts vary.

Need help choosing a plan?

Kingspointe Consulting can guide you through your options and help you find a short-term care plan that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.


Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation and explore your options.