As you age, the idea of life insurance seems increasingly unnecessary. Many retirees prefer not to continue paying life insurance premiums when they no longer have young families to take care of. However, before you shrug off the idea of life insurance in retirement, it's a good idea to consider that life insurance still has its virtues.

You may still have dependents. Many retirees no longer have young children who will suffer financially if they pass on. But even once your children have established their own lives, you might have another dependent: Your spouse.

Your spouse might need to be protected from the loss of your income, even if you are retired. When you die, your spouse's income is likely to be affected. The processes of accessing retirement funds could be taxing to follow up and therefore these funds could come in handy for your spouse.

It's important to look over the conditions attached to the income your spouse receives upon your death. If you care for your spouse, you want to make sure he or she is taken care of financially. The right life insurance policy can ensure that, when you pass, your spouse can make up the shortfall that comes with the loss of income from sources tied to your lifespan.

Life insurance can be used in estate planning. Heirs generally do not have to pay taxes on life insurance benefits. In some cases, retirees can use life insurance as a way to help their heirs pay estate taxes. Life insurance trusts, when used properly and set up with the help of a knowledgeable estate planner, can be a valuable tool for a retiree.

For some people, life insurance in retirement isn't very practical. However, for others, life insurance coverage can provide a solid estate planning strategy, as well as provide for a spouse later on.

Remember that you are more likely to save money by renewing an existing policy than by purchasing a new life insurance policy after age 50. So, before you let your life insurance lapse, make sure you run the numbers. You might need life insurance in retirement after all. (courtesy :Jeff Rose-US News)

So go ahead and talk to your insurance agent and learn how you will get the best out of your life insurance policy.