How do I know if I need long term care insurance?

No one has a crystal ball that predicts their future.  We all hope we will not need long term care.  Look at your family health history.  Check out your immediate family structure. Ask yourself direct questions.  When did your parents die and what type of health issues did they have over the last 10 years of their life?  How old are your children or siblings and where are they in their life curve? Most likely your children will be in the prime of their life and careers and is it fair to ask them to take care of you? Maybe a better alternative would be to have them manage your health care because you have long-term care insurance. Additionally, look at the assets you have accumulated over your life - do you want to protect your assets for your spouse or family?  Long term care insurance helps preserve your wealth.