The pandemic has impacted the lives of many individuals across the globe, including Canadians. While most people experience mild symptoms from COVID-19 that last only a couple of weeks, some continue to suffer from lingering effects. This is what we know as Long COVID, or post-COVID syndrome, which can leave people struggling with symptoms for months or even years after their initial infection. One of the most common concerns we hear from individuals dealing with Long COVID is whether they can still secure life insurance.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of COVID-19 and wondering about your options for life insurance, the good news is that you can still apply for coverage. In this post, we will break down everything you need to know about life insurance when dealing with Long COVID in Canada.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID, or post-COVID-19 syndrome, refers to symptoms that persist for weeks or months after an individual has recovered from the initial infection. According to the World Health Organization, these ongoing issues typically arise three months after infection and can include symptoms like fatigue, difficulty breathing, and cognitive problems. Although the exact cause is not yet fully understood, it is clear that Long COVID can affect various aspects of health and daily living.
What Causes Post-COVID Syndrome?
The exact reasons why some individuals develop Long COVID remain unclear, and more research is needed to determine why it affects certain people. However, it is known that individuals with certain risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity, are more likely to experience severe cases of COVID-19. While some research suggests that severe cases of COVID may lead to long-term health issues, there is also evidence that even those with mild or moderate symptoms can experience lingering effects.
Common Symptoms of Long COVID
Long COVID symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, but some of the most common include:
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
- Memory and attention problems
- Breathing issues and shortness of breath
- Mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Ongoing cough
- Headaches and dizziness
- Loss of taste or smell
- Joint and muscle pain
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats
Health Impacts of Long COVID
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, there are some specific health complications that individuals with Long COVID may face:
- Heart Issues: Some individuals develop heart muscle inflammation, which can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, and a rapid heart rate. Even those with mild cases of COVID-19 can experience lingering heart issues.
- Diabetes: There is growing evidence that COVID-19 can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly among those who had severe cases. Individuals who have developed diabetes post-COVID may face challenges when applying for life insurance.
- Cognitive Decline and Mental Health: Cognitive issues, including difficulty concentrating and memory problems, are common in those recovering from COVID-19. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD are also prevalent, especially in individuals who faced extended isolation or job loss due to the pandemic.
- Taste and Smell Loss: Many people with COVID-19 experience anosmia (loss of smell) or ageusia (loss of taste), which can persist long after the infection has cleared. While these symptoms may not be life-threatening, they can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
- Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS): For those who required hospitalization, PICS can lead to lasting physical and mental health issues, including PTSD, which can complicate life insurance applications.
How Does Long COVID Impact Life Insurance?
When applying for life insurance, insurers typically focus on the current state of your health, rather than the fact that you had COVID-19. However, if you have developed long-term health complications due to COVID-19, it may affect your premiums or eligibility for certain types of coverage. Insurers will ask questions about your medical history, including whether you’ve had COVID-19 and if you are still experiencing symptoms. A ‘yes’ answer may delay your application, but it does not automatically mean you’ll be denied coverage.
Life Insurance Options for Those with Long COVID
Even if you’re dealing with health conditions caused by Long COVID, there are still several options available for life insurance. While some policies may come with higher premiums or exclusions, you can still find coverage tailored to your needs.
- Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance: This option doesn’t require a medical exam and is designed for individuals with severe health issues. However, there is usually a deferral period of 24 months, meaning that if you pass away within the first two years, your beneficiary will only receive the premiums you’ve paid rather than the full death benefit. Guaranteed issue insurance typically offers lower coverage limits and comes with higher premiums.
- Simplified Life Insurance: For those with moderate health issues due to Long COVID, simplified life insurance may be an option. This type of coverage usually requires answering a short medical questionnaire but doesn’t involve a physical exam. While premiums are higher than traditional life insurance, they tend to be more affordable than guaranteed issue policies.
- Term Life Insurance: If your condition is stable and you expect it to improve over time, term life insurance may be a good option. This coverage lasts for a set period, typically 10, 20, or 30 years, and provides full coverage if the policyholder passes away during the term. However, premiums will likely be higher due to the health complications associated with Long COVID.
Tips for Applying for Life Insurance with Long COVID
- Apply Early: If you’ve developed health issues due to COVID-19, it’s best to apply for life insurance as soon as possible. Your rate will be locked in, and it’s less likely that your premiums will increase over time due to worsening health.
- Be Honest About Your Health: When applying for life insurance, always be honest about your medical history. Failing to disclose your Long COVID symptoms could lead to your policy being canceled or your beneficiaries being denied a payout.
- Work with a Life Insurance Advisor: A knowledgeable advisor can help you navigate the process and ensure that you’re choosing the right policy for your needs. They can also assist in finding insurers who are more likely to offer coverage for individuals with pre-existing conditions related to COVID-19.
Conclusion
Living with Long COVID presents many challenges, but it shouldn’t prevent you from obtaining life insurance. There are various options available, even if you have developed long-term health issues as a result of the virus. By understanding the potential impacts of Long COVID on life insurance and working with an experienced advisor, you can secure the coverage you need to protect your loved ones.
