Children become caregivers. Sibling rivalry and frustrations add to the emotional cauldron. Many parents don't talk about money - it's taboo. The infamous sandwich generation -the baby boomers with kids in college and facing a crunch for their own retirement are very vulnerable to this situation. There is a physical, emotional and financial component to a parent or a spouse facing a long term, debilitating disease.
Insurance can lessen some of the impact.
If there is a steady stream of payments for care, the financial burden is lessened. If there is money to pay for care, some of the physical burden can be lifted. The effect of a long-term illness on a couple can be devastating. It can leave the well spouse not only destitute or a lot less wealthy but physically and emotionally drained. It is a burden on the family and many children have full plates and are facing their own financial hurdles.