State Profile: Nebraska
Welcome to the Nebraska State Profile Page! This page features a sample of survey and research results from a comprehensive review of state and local home modification activities across the country. It has a special focus on the aging population and the efforts of State Units on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, and Native American aging service programs that are funded by the Older Americans Act Title VI Grants for Indian Tribal Organizations.
Check back as new updates will be posted periodically! Have any changes or additions? Please contact homemods@usc.edu
SPOTLIGHT ON STATE LEVEL HOME MODIFICATION ACTIVITIES
This section shares information that demonstrates the need for home modification in this state and highlights some of the state's important home modification efforts, policies, and funding sources.
This report by the USC Fall Prevention Center of Excellence and ADvancing States reports on a national survey
NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES/STATE UNIT ON AGING (State Unit on Aging)
State Units on Aging (SUAs) are designated state-level agencies that develop and administer state plans that advocate for and provide assistance, including home modifications or repairs, to older residents, their families, and adults with physical disabilities. SUAs administer funds, including Older Americans Act funds, which may be used to support home modification or repair services through local Area Agencies on Aging and other state and local entities.
1
Services on the Aged and Disabled Waiver
The Home and Community-Based Services Department administers this Medicaid Waiver program that may provide assisted technology supports and home modifications services that are physical adaptations to the primary residence of the participant or participant’s family.
2
Services on Developmental Disabilities Waivers
This waiver provides service to persons of all ages with developmental disabilities so that they may maximize their independence as they live, work, socialize, and participate to the fullest extent possible in their communities. Services may include home modifications.
3
Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) Program
The Disabled Persons and Family Support Program provides state-funded assistance to help people with disabilities remain employed, stay independent and live at home. Eligible individuals may receive funding for specific services, up to $400 a month or $4,800 annually, which may include home modification or repair services related to safety and independence.
4
Older Americans Act: Title IIIB Services Funds
The Nebraska SUA provides guidance to Area Agencies on Aging for the use of Older Americans Act Title IIIB Services funds under Materials Distributions for necessary and permitted home modifications. If the home modification exceeds $500, permission must be obtained from the SUA Director; the maximum amount for home modifications is $1,000.
SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL HOME MODIFICATION EFFORTS
This section shares information that demonstrates the need for home modification in this state and highlights some of the state's important home modification efforts, policies, and funding sources.
This Data Brief highlights key findings from the 2019 National Survey of Area Agencies on Aging on how Area Agencies on Aging are providing and funding home modification and repair activities. It was developed by the USC Fall Prevention Center of Excellence in partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging as part of the Administration for Community Living project, “Promoting Aging in Place by Enhancing Access to Home Modifications.”
1
HandyMan and HouseKeeper Service
The Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging has a Handyman Program to assist older individuals with remaining independent in their homes. Besides upkeep and repair services, safety modifications may include installing grab bars, handrails, and ramps.
2
Handy Home Service and Transportation
The Aging Partners Area Agency on Aging’s Home Handyman program offers home maintenance and minor house repairs on a sliding fee scale to persons age 60 and older. Providers are retirees who have worked in home repairs for many years. Services include non-permit work such as carpentry, electrical and plumbing repairs, gutter cleaning, heavy housework, mowing and yard work, window and screen repairs, and snow removal.
3
Chore Grant Program
The In-Home Chore program provides funding for assistance with tasks, such as yard work or snow removal.
4
Home Preservation Program
Aging in Place Services, part of the broader Home Preservation Program, are designed to help low-income older adults remain safely and independently in the homes where their memories are held. As homes age and physical needs change, many homeowners face barriers to mobility and safety, especially in bathrooms, entryways, and kitchens. Our team of experts addresses these issues through no-cost essential repairs and accessibility modifications, such as grab bar installation, walk-in showers, handrails, non-slip flooring, and more.