You should start by contacting an agent who is licensed to sell long-term care policies in your area. Ask your family and friends to recommend a reputable agent.

Sit down with the agent and discuss your long-term care needs. Make sure that any policy you consider contains these minimum standards for long-term care, from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners:

" At least one year of nursing home or home health care coverage and custodial care. Benefits should not be limited to skilled care only.

" Coverage for Alzheimer's disease.

" An inflation-protection option.

" A guide that clearly describes the policy benefits, limitations and exclusions. The policy guide should help you decide whether long-term care insurance is the right decision for you.

" A guarantee that the policy will not be canceled when you are older or if you suffer from physical or mental deterioration.

" The right to return the policy within 30 days for a premium refund. This is also known as a free look period, which is required by state law.

" No requirements that say you: must first be hospitalized in order to receive nursing home or home health care benefits; first receive skilled nursing home care before you can receive custodial nursing home care; or, first receive nursing home care before receiving home health care.

You should discuss your needs with an agent, asking lots of questions. Make sure you know exactly what you are getting for your money. If you don't understand something, don't buy the policy. If you are pressured or made too-good promises, walk away.

When you find the right coverage for your needs, you will need to fill out an application to complete the necessary forms. You should be honest and completely disclose your medical history to the agent. If your health information is misstated or incomplete, the company will not pay your claims.