What qualifies a long-term care policy?

A long-term care policy typically qualifies an individual based on their inability to perform at least two of the six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or if they are experiencing severe cognitive impairment. The six ADLs generally include bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring (moving from place to place), and maintaining continence. When an individual cannot manage at least two of these activities, it often indicates that they require assistance, thus qualifying them for benefits under a long-term care policy.

Additionally, severe cognitive impairment, such as that caused by Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, may also qualify an individual for long-term care benefits because it significantly impacts their ability to live independently. Thus, the combination of these criteria serves to determine eligibility for coverage under long-term care policies, ensuring that those who truly need assistance receive the necessary support.

The other choices do not capture the essential criteria for qualification. Merely being over the age of 65 or having a terminal illness diagnosis does not in itself indicate a need for long-term care services, and being unable to perform any ADLs is more specific than what long-term care policies typically require to establish eligibility.