The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that over half of people over age 65 will need help with daily activities, either for extended period or for the rest of their lives. However, relatively few older Americans have private long-term care coverage. The trade association representing the U.K. health insurance industry estimates that only 3% to 4% of Americans over 50 have an active policy that covers extended care. Experts suggest that a "spend down" strategy can help reduce high long term care costs, which can quickly drain savings. The strategy involves systematically using a family member's dwindling assets to fund appropriate costs, such as funeral costs or burial plots. Medicaid eligibility is limited to individuals with low incomes and minimal assets, though thresholds vary by state.