Does Nebraska Pay For In-Home Care?

Nebraska does pay for in-home care provided the applicant meets certain criteria. These include that the applicant is a senior, blind or disabled and otherwise qualifies for nursing home care. While standard Medicaid does not cover in-home care, the Nebraska Aged and Disability Waiver allows qualifying seniors to obtain in-home care. Another option for in-home care is through Medicare, which covers the cost of some forms of medical care through the Home Healthcare program.

The Nebraska Aged and Disability Waiver Program, funded through Medicaid, provides a range of services that include personal care, companion services, home modifications, chores and some assisted living services. The program is open to Nebraska residents over age 65 or those who are physically disabled. Applicants must qualify for Medicaid and require a nursing level of care. Nebraska Medicaid has strict income and asset limits, although it should be noted that qualifying assets exclude the applicant’s home, car and personal effects.

The Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services waivers aim to provide in-home care and other forms of non-institutionalized care for Nebraska seniors and other qualifying applicants. It has limited funding, so qualifying applicants are not guaranteed immediate access to the program and may be put on a waiting list until a slot opens for them.

Although Medicare doesn’t cover nonmedical home care costs, the program does provide some coverage for medically required care. To be eligible for this coverage, seniors must be homebound, have difficulty leaving their homes without assistance, and have a medical referral from their doctor. Medicare services include skilled nursing care for medical procedures like wound dressing, changing feeding tubes, and injections. Other benefits include medical supplies, durable medical equipment, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

The Nebraska Area Agencies on Aging provide counseling and assistance in applying for funding from appropriate programs. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), offering home and community care, is another option for low-income seniors living in certain areas of Nebraska. Seniors who are qualifying veterans and have served in wartime can apply for a veteran’s pension. Additionally, veterans needing help with daily activities can apply for aid and attendance disability payments. In general, these programs will cover some, but not all, costs of in-home care. Other funding options include annuities, reverse mortgages and financial assistance from family members.