8 Assisted Living Communities in Norfolk, Nebraska

The average cost of assisted living in the city is $3,240 a month. This guide is a starting point covering the cost of assisted living care in the city, as well as financing options to pay for it. You’ll find in-depth information on 8 Assisted Living Communities in Norfolk and several in surrounding areas. The Cost of Senior Care in Norfolk, NE

• Assisted Living: $3,240
• Nursing Home Care: $5,779
• In-home Care: $4,576
• Adult Day Health Services: $1,064

The 2018 Genworth Cost of Care study offers a reliable metric for comparing senior care costs across the state and nation. It shows that at $3,240, assisted living rates in Norfolk are significantly lower than both the state ($3,844) and national ($4,000) averages. They’re also about $1,000 less than monthly rates in Omaha ($4,285) and $2,200 less than prices in Lincoln ($5,429). Rates in neighboring Des Moines, IA, and Kansas City, MO, are somewhat closer to those in Norfolk at $3,950 and $4,050, respectively.

Note: Senior care cost data wasn’t available for Norfolk, so data for the closest city, Grand Island, was used.

The level of care required and where it’s received are two of the major influences on senior care costs in Norfolk. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are both residential environments that typically provide room and board, but care in a nursing home costs roughly $2,500 more per month due to the availability of round-the-clock skilled services. In-home services, such as homemakers and home health aides, cost over $1,300 more per month than assisted living. The convenience and enjoyment of remaining at home may justify the extra expense, but seniors considering these options also need to take regular household operating costs, such as utilities, upkeep and food, into account.

 

Each state administers its own Medicaid program to ensure basic health care services to the most vulnerable among the population: low-income families with children, pregnant women, disabled and blind adults and the elderly. These programs are made possible through regulation and joint funding from the federal government.

The Nebraska state program is administered through the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care of the Department of Health and Human Services. It provides a wide range of essential services including inpatient and outpatient hospital care, doctor and specialist visits, diagnostic services, mental health care, prescription drugs and nursing home care.

To qualify for Medicaid coverage that includes long-term care, Norfolk residents must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents and:

• Be disabled, blind or aged 65 and older
• Have a monthly income below $1,041 for single applicants and $1,409 if married and both spouses apply
• Have no more than $4,000 in assets if single and $6,000 if married and applying jointly
• Be assessed as needing a nursing-facility level of care

Income from all sources counts, but some assets are excluded, such as a primary residence, household furnishings, personal belongings, one vehicle and a burial trust.

Married couples are given some leeway with the above limits if only one spouse applies:

• A non-applicant spouse’s monthly income is disregarded
• An applicant can transfer up to $3,160.50 of income per month to their spouse as a maintenance needs allowance
• A non-applicant spouse can keep up to $126,420 in joint assets as a resource allowance

Those who need assistance with long-term care expenses but have income above the limit may also qualify through a share of cost. This requires an applicant to pay for their care down to the allowed income limit, which is currently $392 per month.

Seniors can apply for Medicaid coverage online, by visiting the local DHHS office at 209 N. 5th St. or by calling (402) 370-3120.

The Northeast Nebraska AAA exists to help area residents aged 60 and older retain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life. The agency provides a wide array of services specifically aimed at the older population, such as care management, educational programs, wellness clinics, legal assistance, qualifying assessments and counseling regarding health and long-term care benefits and available resources. Northeast Nebraska Area Agency on Aging
119 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68701
(402) 270-3454

Norfolk senior veterans and their survivors can receive knowledgeable help applying for pensions and benefits at the Madison County Veterans Service office. Those in need of health care services can access primary care, laboratory services, prescriptions and referrals to specialty care in Omaha at the Norfolk VA Clinic.

Madison County Veterans Service Office
130 S. 4th St., Norfolk, NE 68748
(402) 370-3578

Norfolk VA Clinic
710 S. 13th St., Norfolk, NE 68701
(402) 370-4570

Senior Homes has an extensive directory of senior living options, with care and living providers across the United States.