Understanding Medicaid and Waiver Services in Nebraska: A Guide for Omaha Families Seeking In-Home Care

Navigating healthcare and support services for aging or disabled loved ones can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to understand what financial help is available. If you’re in Omaha, Nebraska, and exploring in-home care services, Medicaid and waiver programs may offer the support your family needs.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what Medicaid covers, how Nebraska’s waiver programs work, and how Omaha families can access affordable home care for seniors or individuals with disabilities.

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🏥 What Is Medicaid and How Does It Help with In-Home Care?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps low-income individuals access medical and long-term care services. In Nebraska, Medicaid is administered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

For families in Omaha, this program can cover a wide range of in-home care services, especially through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.

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🧾 What Are Medicaid Waiver Programs in Nebraska?

Waivers allow states to "waive" certain Medicaid requirements, enabling more flexible, community-based care instead of institutionalization (like nursing homes). Nebraska offers several waiver programs, but for in-home senior care in Omaha, the most relevant is the:

✅ Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver

This program is designed for:

• Seniors aged 65+

• Adults (under 65) with physical disabilities

• Individuals who would otherwise qualify for nursing facility level of care

Instead of moving into a nursing home, eligible individuals can receive in-home support—paid for by Medicaid.

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📋 Services Covered by the A&D Waiver in Omaha

The A&D waiver supports seniors and disabled adults by funding services that help them stay in their own homes or community settings.

Covered services may include:

• Personal care assistance (bathing, grooming, dressing)

• Companion care and supervision

• Homemaker services (meal prep, light housekeeping)

• Medication reminders

• Respite care for family caregivers

• Adult day services

• Non-medical transportation

• Home-delivered meals

• Assistive technology and emergency response systems

Agencies like Xtrakare, based in Omaha, are approved to provide these services under the A&D waiver.

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🏡 Why Waiver Services Matter for Omaha Families

Omaha families face the same challenges as others across the country: balancing work, family responsibilities, and caregiving. Waiver services give local families access to:

• Affordable home care without moving into a facility

• Trained caregivers who come to the senior's home

• Reduced stress for family members who need backup help

• Improved quality of life for seniors aging in place

And with home care providers located across Omaha, Ralston, Bellevue, and Papillion, families can receive local support with a personal touch.

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💰 Who Qualifies for Medicaid Waiver Services in Nebraska?

To qualify for the Aged & Disabled Waiver in Omaha, individuals must meet:

1. Medical Eligibility

Must require a nursing facility level of care (determined by a DHHS assessment).

2. Financial Eligibility

Income and asset limits apply. As of 2025:

• Monthly income limit: ~$2,829 for individuals (may change annually)

• Asset limit: $4,000 for individuals (excluding home and car)

Applicants must be Nebraska residents and U.S. citizens or legal residents.

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📝 How to Apply for Medicaid Waiver Services in Omaha

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Apply for Nebraska Medicaid
   You can apply online at ACCESSNebraska or call DHHS at 1-855-632-7633.

2. Request A&D Waiver Services
   Indicate on your application that you need long-term care support.

3. Schedule a Functional Needs Assessment
   A case manager will evaluate your eligibility for waiver services.

4. Choose a Provider
   Once approved, you’ll be assigned a Service Coordinator to help you select a home care provider like Xtrakare, which specializes in Medicaid waiver care in Omaha.

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🤝 Why Choose Xtrakare for Medicaid In-Home Care in Omaha?

At Xtrakare, we work hand-in-hand with Nebraska’s Medicaid and waiver programs to deliver compassionate, affordable care for families across the Omaha metro.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• ✅ Approved Medicaid & Waiver Provider

• 🧑⚕️ Trained, background-checked caregivers

• 🕰️ Flexible care plans (as little as 2 hours/week to 24/7)

• 👵 Specialized dementia and personal care

• 🧡 Personalized service rooted in dignity and respect

• 📍 Local support—based right here in Omaha

We believe every senior deserves to age with dignity, independence, and love—regardless of income.

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📊 Medicaid vs. Private Pay Home Care in Omaha: A Quick Comparison

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🔎 FAQs About Medicaid & Waiver Services in Omaha

Q: Can I use Medicaid waiver services for part-time help only?
A: Yes. Even if your loved one only needs 10–15 hours a week, you may still qualify.

Q: What if my loved one owns a home?
A: Primary residence is usually excluded from asset calculations.

Q: Do you accept Medicaid long-term care clients at Xtrakare?
A: Absolutely. We specialize in helping waiver-eligible clients set up custom care plans in the Omaha area.

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🏁 Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Cost Stop You from Getting Care

You don’t have to carry the caregiving burden alone—or worry that quality care is out of reach. With Nebraska’s Medicaid waiver services, Omaha families can access high-quality, personalized in-home care without breaking the bank.

Let us help you through the process—because everyone deserves to age with care, comfort, and dignity.

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📞 Ready to Get Started?

Contact Xtrakare to speak with a care coordinator who can help you:

• Understand your Medicaid options

• Apply for waiver services

• Build a care plan that fits your needs and budget

📍 Serving Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Ralston, and surrounding Nebraska communities
📞 Call us today at 531-325-7170
🌐 Visit: www.xtrakare.com