Every day, hundreds or perhaps thousands of people in America purchase health insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, and even insurance against fire or theft in their homes. And while they may not like having the extra expense, very few of them feel the money is wasted.

With all those expenses, doesn't it make sense to also protect against one of the most expensive of life's realities: long term care? Today, we live longer because of new medical treatments so it's likely that you or your parents may one day require some type of senior care.

It's time for America to ask: When do I need long term health care? Once the question is put forth, it's unavoidable to seek answers and that is ultimately a good thing for all of our country's inhabitants, no matter their age.

In addition to that question, it's also important to answer the question of why you may need LTC which is easier than answering the first question.

People may require LTC in their senior years if they develop cognitive disabilities like Alzheimer's Disease, or degenerative disorders like Parkinson's Disease. Additionally a catastrophic accident or chronic illness may facilitate the need.

Now that you know why, it's time to ask yourself: When do I need long term health care? It's pretty obvious by now that you or a family member will need extra health care when suffering from one of the ailments listed above.

This need can occur at any time but most often manifests during the senior years of an individuals lifetime. The need may appear suddenly or develop over a long period of time depending upon each individual case.

Watching out for changes in physical and mental abilities in yourself and aging family members is the best tool for recognizing when LTC is most needed. Naturally your next question will be: When do I need long term health care insurance and why?

Again, the why is easier and there are actually several reasons: protecting family finances; maintaining independence, and protecting your children's inheritance.

The when is trickier but the best rule of thumb is several years before you actually have the need. Most people who are concerned about long term care begin to make their purchases between the ages of 50 and 60.

Get the long term care insurance facts. With time and patience, you can answer for yourself that nagging old question: When do I need long term health care?