17 New Senior Life Insurance Statistics and Trends for 2024

Here is an overview of several important trends taking place in the senior life insurance industry over the past 12 months:

According to the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), the market size for senior life insurance has grown by 6% annually over the past five years, with projections indicating continued growth. 

This trend can be attributed to the increasing awareness among seniors about the importance of life insurance for financial planning and end-of-life expenses.

A key statistic from the Insurance Information Institute (III) reveals that nearly 70% of seniors aged 65 and older have some form of life insurance. 

This high percentage underscores the importance seniors place on life insurance as a means to provide financial security to their loved ones. 

Moreover, this percentage is expected to rise as baby boomers continue to retire in large numbers.

Interestingly, the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association (LIMRA) reports that there has been a 9% increase in the purchase of term life insurance policies by seniors. 

These policies are often chosen for their affordability compared to whole life insurance and can be an excellent option for seniors looking for coverage without breaking the bank.

One of the emerging trends in senior life insurance is the increase in digital and online applications. 

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) notes that 45% of senior life insurance policies were applied for online in 2023, and this number is expected to rise to 55% in 2024. 

This shift toward digital platforms offers seniors more convenience and transparency when selecting their policies.

Another key observation is the rise of “no health exam” life insurance policies. 

Data from the Life Office Management Association (LOMA) shows that over 30% of new senior life insurance policies issued in 2023 were no health exam policies, which cater to seniors who might have health conditions that make traditional policies hard to obtain.

Financial planning is at the forefront of reasons why seniors are securing life insurance. 

A report by the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that 72% of seniors have purchased life insurance policies primarily to cover final expenses, including funeral costs, medical bills, and outstanding debts, underscoring the practical need for these policies.

Speaking of final expenses, another trend is the popularity of final expense insurance. 

Industry insights suggest that final expense insurance policies accounted for 34% of senior life insurance sales in 2023, driven by their tailored benefits and simplicity in covering end-of-life costs.

Seniors are also increasingly interested in life insurance policies that accumulate cash value. 

LIMRA reports a 10% increase in the purchase of whole life insurance policies by seniors, which offer the dual advantage of life coverage along with the potential to build cash value over time.

Another important statistic to consider is the average premium cost for senior life insurance. 

According to the III, the average monthly premium for a $250,000 term life insurance policy for a 65-year-old nonsmoking male is approximately $200. 

Understanding these costs helps seniors budget effectively for their insurance needs.

A nuanced trend is the rise of customizable life insurance policies. 

More insurers are offering policies that allow seniors to tailor their coverage based on their unique needs and circumstances. 

This flexibility can include adjustable death benefits, premium payments, and the duration of coverage.

Data from ACLI indicates that there is an increased interest in policies with living benefits. 

Nearly 25% of new policies sold in 2023 included living benefits, which provide policyholders access to a portion of their death benefit while still alive, typically in cases of serious illness or critical need.

Talking about critical illness, there’s been a surge in policies that include riders for terminal and chronic illnesses. 

As seniors look to prepare for various health scenarios, insurers report that 40% of new senior life insurance policies now include these riders.

Market analysis also shows a growing preference for guaranteed issue life insurance policies. 

LOMA reveals that 20% of seniors opted for guaranteed issue policies in 2023, enjoying the peace of mind that no health questions or exams are required to qualify. 

With the increasing trend of buying insurance online, there’s been significant growth in digital-first insurance providers. 

Companies that operate exclusively online, such as Ladder, have seen a 15% increase in senior policyholders seeking convenience and competitive pricing.

Review the entire list of 17 new senior life insurance statistics and trends for 2024.