What to Look for in a Home Care Agency in Omaha

What to Look for in a Home Care Agency in Omaha

When it comes to finding the right home care agency in Omaha, the process can feel overwhelming. Whether you're seeking support for an aging parent, a loved one with disabilities, or someone recovering from surgery, you want the best care possible—without compromising trust, comfort, or quality.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through what to look for when evaluating a home care agency, particularly in the Omaha, Nebraska area.

1. Licensing, Accreditation, and Certification

The first thing to check is whether the agency is licensed by the state of Nebraska. All reputable home care providers must comply with state regulations and undergo routine inspections.

Also, consider:

  • Medicare/Medicaid Certification (especially important for families using public assistance programs)

  • Accreditation from agencies like The Joint Commission or CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Partner)

✅ Tip: Ask to see proof of license and certification during your first meeting with an agency representative.

2. Caregiver Screening and Training

You’ll want caregivers who are not only skilled, but also compassionate and trustworthy. Look for agencies that:

  • Conduct background checks

  • Require CPR/First Aid training

  • Provide ongoing education and skill training

  • Are staffed with CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) or HHAs (Home Health Aides)

Omaha families often prefer local caregivers who understand the community and cultural dynamics of the area.

3. Customized Care Plans

Each client has different needs, and no care plan should be one-size-fits-all. Top agencies in Omaha will:

  • Conduct in-home assessments

  • Work with families and medical professionals to develop personalized plans

  • Offer flexibility as needs change (post-hospitalization, dementia progression, etc.)

🏡 Whether your loved one needs help with bathing, medication reminders, or companionship, care should adapt to their unique lifestyle.

4. Range of Services Offered

Not all home care agencies offer the same services. Some specialize in personal care, while others provide skilled nursing or hospice support.

Services to look for:

  • Personal care (bathing, grooming, toileting)

  • Companionship and social interaction

  • Meal preparation and light housekeeping

  • Transportation to appointments

  • Medication management

  • Dementia or Alzheimer’s care

Make sure the agency can scale up services if needs grow over time.

5. Transparency in Pricing and Policies

Reputable agencies will be upfront about pricing, billing practices, and cancellation policies. Especially in Omaha, where Medicaid Waiver and VA benefits may be involved, clarity is critical.

Ask:

  • What is the hourly or daily rate?

  • Are there minimum hours per shift?

  • Are services covered by insurance, Medicaid, or veterans' programs?

  • Is there a contract or trial period?

💡 Compare two or three agencies to get a feel for the value and support offered at different price points.

6. Reputation and Reviews in Omaha

Omaha has a tight-knit community. Use that to your advantage.

Ways to verify a home care agency’s reputation:

  • Read Google and Yelp reviews

  • Check with the Better Business Bureau

  • Ask for local references from current or past clients

  • Search for any complaints filed with Nebraska DHHS

Word-of-mouth in neighborhoods like Benson, West Omaha, or South O can be a powerful way to find a trusted agency.

7. Emergency Support and Availability

A good agency is there 24/7, even if care isn’t needed round-the-clock. They should have:

  • After-hours support

  • On-call supervisors

  • Ability to handle emergency staffing situations

Especially during winter months or severe weather in Nebraska, reliable emergency coverage is essential.

8. Cultural Fit and Personal Touch

The right caregiver should feel like a natural extension of your family. Look for agencies that emphasize:

  • Caregiver matching based on personality and interests

  • Bilingual or culturally sensitive staff (important for Omaha’s growing diverse communities)

  • Consistency in caregivers to build trust and routine

🤝 The best care doesn’t feel clinical—it feels personal.

Why Xtrakare May Be the Right Fit for Your Family

At Xtrakare, we specialize in providing personalized, high-quality in-home care services in Omaha and surrounding areas. Our team of caregivers is trained, compassionate, and ready to meet your family’s evolving needs—whether that’s daily companionship or specialized dementia care.

Why families choose Xtrakare:

  • State-licensed and insured

  • Medicaid  approved

  • Customized care plans

  • Transparent pricing

  • 24/7 support and same-day assessments

  • Serving North Omaha, West Omaha, Bellevue, and more

👉 Call us today at 5313257170 or visit www.xtrakare.com to schedule a free in-home care consultation.


Choosing the right home care agency in Omaha is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your loved one’s well-being. Focus on quality, transparency, and trust—and take the time to ask thoughtful questions before making your decision.

With the right support, aging in place can be safe, fulfilling, and filled with dignity.

Back to blog