Assisted Living in Nebraska (NE)

Costs of Assisted Living in Nebraska

The median cost of Assisted Living care in the state of Nebraska is $3,510 per month while the national average is $3,628. While the average cost of care in Nebraska is lower than it is nationally, that is to be expected as Nebraska is a state with a lower cost of living and it is also a very rural state – almost 90% of the cities in Nebraska have less than 3,000 residents. The costs of assisted living in Nebraska may vary due to the needs of the residents within a facility and, in a state as rural as Nebraska, you may find only one or two Assisted Living Facilities in a county so Assisted Living Facilities will be forced to offer different levels of services to different clients at different prices, or residents will be forced to go far from home to get the care that they need. Within the state of Nebraska alone, the costs of assisted living facilities vary from $3,200 per month in Grand Island to almost $4,620 in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Home Health Aides and Adult Day Care are other ways that Nebraskans can care for seniors. In Nebraska, the state median for Adult Day Health Care averages almost $1,260 per month or close to $15,100 per year. A Home Health Aide in Nebraska costs, on average $4,480 a month, or almost $54,000 annually. Although Home Health Day Care is much cheaper than Assisted Living in Nebraska, it is usually only offered for between eight to twelve hours per day and Home Health Aides costs are for a 44-hour week. It is also important to remember while Home Health Aides are important and helpful, they are not licensed nurses, nor are there licensed nurses available if necessary which is something that is available in most Nebraska Assisted Living Facilities.

In Nebraska, a semi-private room in a nursing facility costs close to $68,000 per year, and a private room will cost close to $77,000 annually. By the year 2030, seniors can expect to see the cost of Assisted Living in Nebraska to be around $64,000 per year – an increase of almost $22,000. The cost of Nursing Home Care will increase to approximately $102,000 for a semi-private room and almost $116,000 for a private room by 2030. Also, as the regulations increase in both nursing homes and in Assisted Living, the prices of care within these facilities will increase as well.

Seniors can expect to pay different prices for assisted living in Nebraska, depending on the city they choose as their senior living option. For example:

• Grand Island, Nebraska - $3,650;
• Omaha Area, Nebraska - $4,000; and
• Lincoln, Nebraska - $4,620;

Assisted Living Services and Amenities in Nebraska

Assisted living facilities in Nebraska offer a wide range of services and amenities designed to support residents’ well-being, health, and independence. These facilities cater to seniors who require assistance with daily activities but do not need intensive medical care. The services and amenities provided can vary between locations, but most include the following:

Personal Care and Support Services

• Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Staff help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
• Medication Management: Medication reminders, supervision, and assistance with administering medications are provided by trained staff.
• 24-Hour Staff Availability: Most facilities ensure that trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with any needs or emergencies.
• Health Monitoring: Regular health checks and coordination with external healthcare providers, such as physicians and therapists, ensure residents' medical needs are met.

Dining and Nutrition Services

• Three Daily Meals and Snacks: Facilities provide nutritious, well-balanced meals that cater to dietary restrictions or preferences, including options for low-sodium, gluten-free, or diabetic diets.
• In-Room Dining: Some facilities offer the option to have meals delivered directly to the resident’s room for added convenience.
• Social Dining Areas: Shared dining spaces encourage socialization and provide a community atmosphere where residents can enjoy meals together.

Social and Recreational Activities

• Group Activities and Events: Residents can participate in a variety of social and recreational activities such as arts and crafts, exercise classes, trivia games, movie nights, and more.
• Outings and Excursions: Many facilities arrange outings to local attractions, shopping centers, or cultural events to keep residents engaged and active in the community.
• Spiritual and Religious Services: Facilities often offer opportunities for residents to attend religious services, meditation sessions, or participate in spiritual activities, if desired.

Wellness and Fitness Services

• Exercise Programs: Some facilities offer group fitness classes or physical therapy to promote mobility, strength, and general well-being.
• On-Site Healthcare Services: On-site visits from doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals are available at many assisted living facilities.
• Rehabilitation Services: Some facilities offer occupational and physical therapy to help residents recover from injuries or surgeries.

Housekeeping and Maintenance

• Housekeeping Services: Regular cleaning services are provided, including housekeeping, laundry, and personal care assistance.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Facilities handle general upkeep and maintenance of living spaces, including repairs to plumbing, electrical systems, and other amenities.

Safety and Security Features

• Emergency Call Systems: Many facilities are equipped with emergency alert systems that allow residents to contact staff in case of an emergency.
• Secure Entrances: Many facilities feature secured entryways or gated access to ensure the safety and security of residents.
• Fall Prevention: The layout and design of many assisted living facilities are focused on preventing falls, with features such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and well-lit areas.

Transportation Services

• Transportation Assistance: Facilities may provide scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, or other necessary errands.
• On-Demand Transportation: Some facilities also offer transportation services on demand, allowing residents to easily access the community outside the facility.

Accommodations and Room Options

• Private or Shared Rooms: Residents can choose from a variety of living arrangements, including private rooms or shared apartments, depending on their preferences and budget.
• Customized Living Spaces: Many facilities offer the option to personalize rooms with personal belongings, furniture, and décor to create a more homelike environment.

Memory Care (Optional)

• Specialized Memory Care Services: Some assisted living facilities offer memory care services for residents with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. These services typically include specialized care programs, staff training, and secure living spaces designed to minimize confusion and enhance safety.

Types of Nebraska Assisted Living Communities

Nebraska offers a variety of assisted living communities designed to meet the unique needs of its diverse senior population. These communities are specifically structured to provide different levels of support and care, while also promoting independence and quality of life. Below are the primary types of assisted living communities you can find in Nebraska:

1. Traditional Assisted Living Communities

Traditional assisted living facilities in Nebraska provide a combination of housing, meals, and personal care services, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. These communities often include social activities and recreational programs to promote socialization and well-being. Residents typically live in private apartments or rooms, and staff are available around the clock to assist with daily needs.

2. Memory Care Assisted Living

For seniors with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or other memory-related conditions, Nebraska has specialized memory care assisted living communities. These facilities are designed with security features to prevent wandering and provide a safe environment. Care plans are tailored to the individual’s cognitive abilities, with a focus on maintaining as much independence as possible while ensuring safety and comfort. Staff are trained to provide specialized care for individuals with memory loss, including cognitive therapies and structured activities.

3. Independent Living with Support Services

Some Nebraska communities offer a hybrid model that combines independent living with access to assisted living services as needed. These communities cater to seniors who are largely independent but may need occasional help with daily tasks like housekeeping, transportation, or medication management. Independent living units typically include full kitchens, but residents have the option to access additional services as their needs evolve, allowing for a more gradual transition into higher levels of care if necessary.

4. Respite Care

Respite care facilities in Nebraska are designed to provide temporary care for individuals who may not need long-term assistance but require help due to a temporary illness, surgery, or caregiver relief. These communities are equipped to provide short-term care while offering seniors a comfortable and supportive environment. Respite care is often available in traditional assisted living or specialized memory care communities, allowing caregivers to take a break while ensuring their loved ones receive the necessary care.

5. Palliative and Hospice Care Assisted Living

Some assisted living communities in Nebraska specialize in palliative and hospice care, which focuses on providing comfort, pain management, and emotional support to seniors with serious or terminal illnesses. These facilities have trained staff who manage end-of-life care, allowing residents to live their final days with dignity and reduced suffering. Palliative care may also be offered in conjunction with other types of assisted living care to ensure that individuals experiencing chronic conditions receive the right support.

6. Farmstead or Rural Assisted Living Communities

For seniors who prefer a quieter, more rural environment, some Nebraska assisted living communities are located on farms or in rural settings. These communities often feature larger, more spread-out properties with agricultural themes, providing residents with a unique living experience. Rural assisted living facilities offer a close-knit community environment and may include opportunities for gardening, animal care, or outdoor activities, providing a peaceful and therapeutic setting for seniors.

7. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)

CCRCs in Nebraska are large communities that offer a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services. These communities are ideal for individuals who want to plan for their future care needs in one location. Residents begin in independent living but have the option to move to higher levels of care as their needs change. CCRCs provide long-term stability, and many offer financial plans to secure care throughout the resident’s lifetime.

Safety and security measures in Nebraska assisted living facilities

Nebraska assisted living facilities implement a range of safety and security measures to ensure the well-being of residents, addressing both physical and emotional needs. These measures are designed to create a secure, comfortable environment that allows residents to maintain their independence while receiving the necessary care.

1. 24-Hour Staff and Emergency Response Systems
   Most Nebraska assisted living facilities are staffed around the clock to address emergencies and assist residents with daily activities. These staff members are trained to respond swiftly in case of medical emergencies, falls, or other urgent situations. Emergency response systems, including pull cords, call buttons, and alarm systems, are often available in residents’ rooms and common areas, ensuring immediate access to assistance when needed.

2. Surveillance and Monitoring Systems
   To enhance security, facilities frequently use security cameras and monitoring systems in common areas like hallways, entrances, and parking lots. These systems help prevent unauthorized access and monitor the safety of residents, particularly in large facilities. Surveillance footage is typically monitored by staff to ensure that residents are protected from potential threats.

3. Secure Entry Points and Access Control
   Access to Nebraska assisted living facilities is often controlled through secure entry points, including locked doors and coded keypads. These access control systems prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the building while allowing family members, authorized visitors, and staff to gain entry easily. In some cases, biometric access may also be implemented for added security.

4. Fire Safety Protocols and Evacuation Plans
   Fire safety is a critical component of assisted living facilities. These buildings are equipped with fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems. Additionally, each facility must have a detailed evacuation plan that includes clear instructions for staff and residents in case of a fire or other emergencies. Regular fire drills are conducted to ensure everyone is familiar with evacuation procedures.

5. Personal Safety and Fall Prevention
   Nebraska facilities take personal safety seriously by implementing fall prevention measures. This includes installing grab bars in bathrooms, non-slip flooring, and ensuring that residents’ rooms are free from obstacles. Many facilities also assess residents' mobility regularly and provide assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs when necessary. Staff are trained to assist residents with mobility challenges to prevent accidents.

6. Medication Management and Safety
   Safe medication management is a priority in Nebraska assisted living facilities. Licensed staff members are responsible for administering medications according to prescribed schedules. Medication storage is often secure, with locked cabinets or carts, ensuring that medications are not accessible to unauthorized individuals. Additionally, some facilities utilize electronic medication management systems to track doses and reduce the risk of errors.

7. Health and Wellness Monitoring
   Facilities often have health monitoring systems in place to keep track of residents' vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Regular wellness checks help identify potential health concerns early, allowing for timely intervention. Staff are trained to recognize warning signs of medical emergencies, such as strokes or heart attacks, and respond appropriately.

8. Visitor Policies
   Nebraska assisted living facilities implement strict visitor policies to maintain a secure environment. Visitors are typically required to sign in at the front desk and may be subject to screening procedures. In some cases, families may need to schedule visits in advance to ensure that the facility can manage guest traffic without compromising resident safety.

9. Communication with Families
   Many facilities maintain open lines of communication with residents' families, keeping them informed about any changes in their loved one’s health or security. This can include regular updates via phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings. This ensures that families are aware of safety protocols and feel reassured about the well-being of their loved ones.

10. Mental Health and Emotional Safety
    While physical safety is a primary concern, Nebraska assisted living facilities also recognize the importance of emotional and mental well-being. Staff members are trained to identify signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, providing appropriate support or referrals to counseling services. Creating a safe and supportive atmosphere helps residents feel secure in their living environment.

Moving to Nebraska Assisted Living Facilities

Moving to an assisted living facility in Nebraska involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition and a comfortable living experience. The state offers a variety of options, from urban centers like Omaha and Lincoln to more rural areas, each catering to different preferences and needs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Researching Assisted Living Facilities in Nebraska

Nebraska has a diverse selection of assisted living facilities, ranging from large communities in metropolitan areas to smaller, more intimate settings in rural towns. Start by researching different facilities based on your preferences for location, size, amenities, and types of care provided. Some factors to consider include:

• Location: Nebraska offers a range of urban and rural settings. Popular cities like Omaha and Lincoln provide access to healthcare, shopping, and cultural activities, while smaller towns offer quieter, more relaxed environments.
• Services: Facilities may vary in the level of care provided. Some focus primarily on assisting with daily activities, while others offer specialized care for memory issues or other medical conditions.
• Amenities: Look for amenities that fit your lifestyle, such as transportation services, recreational activities, fitness programs, or dining options.

2. Financial Planning and Budgeting

Before choosing a facility, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with assisted living in Nebraska. Costs can vary significantly depending on location, the level of care needed, and the facility's offerings. It’s important to develop a financial plan that covers the following:

• Monthly Fees: Assisted living in Nebraska typically operates on a monthly fee structure. The fees can range widely from $3,000 to $5,500 per month, depending on the facility’s location and services.
• Additional Costs: Some facilities charge extra for additional services such as medication management, personal care, or specialized therapies.
• Insurance: Investigate whether your current insurance or state assistance programs like Medicaid can help offset some of the costs. Nebraska has specific Medicaid programs that may assist eligible residents.

3. Visiting and Touring Facilities

Visiting multiple facilities is essential to get a sense of the environment and assess whether the community is a good fit. When touring assisted living facilities in Nebraska, consider these steps:

• Ask Questions: Inquire about the staff-to-resident ratio, the qualifications of the staff, the facility’s policies, and the types of care provided.
• Observe the Atmosphere: Pay attention to the general atmosphere, including the cleanliness of the facility, the friendliness of the staff, and how engaged the residents are in daily activities.
• Talk to Residents and Families: If possible, talk to current residents and their families to get an insider’s perspective on what living there is like.

4. Legal and Documentation Requirements

Moving into an assisted living facility in Nebraska involves some legal and administrative steps. These may include:

• Residency Agreement: Most facilities will require you to sign a residency agreement outlining the terms of your stay, including care services, fees, and rights.
• Medical Records: Some facilities will require a medical assessment to ensure they can provide the appropriate care for your needs. Be prepared to provide detailed medical records.
• State Regulations: Nebraska has regulations governing assisted living facilities, ensuring that they meet specific health and safety standards. Familiarize yourself with the state’s licensing requirements for assisted living to ensure your chosen facility complies.

5. Transition and Moving Logistics

Once you’ve chosen the right facility, you’ll need to plan for the move. This can include:

• Packing: Assisted living facilities often offer furniture and accommodations, but you may want to bring personal belongings like family photos, clothing, or favorite items that will make you feel at home.
• Transportation: Some facilities provide transportation services for residents, but if you’re moving from a distance, you’ll need to arrange for a moving company or family support.
• Settling In: Once you move in, give yourself time to adjust. Many Nebraska facilities offer orientation programs and social activities to help new residents feel at home.

6. Support Services and Community Integration

One of the most important aspects of assisted living is the support network. Moving to a new community can be challenging, so it’s essential to find ways to stay connected and engaged:

• Family Visits: Make sure to stay in touch with family and friends. Many Nebraska facilities encourage family visits and provide spaces for families to gather.
• Activities and Socialization: Assisted living facilities in Nebraska offer a wide range of social and recreational activities to help residents stay engaged and active. Check what programs are available, such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, educational sessions, or group outings.
• Healthcare and Support: Inquire about ongoing healthcare support such as visiting doctors, physical therapy, and mental health services.

7. Continuing Care and Long-Term Considerations

As your needs may change over time, consider facilities that offer varying levels of care, such as memory care or nursing care. Some assisted living communities in Nebraska are part of larger continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), which offer a continuum of care from independent living to more intensive medical assistance as needed.

This flexibility can help you remain in the same community even if your care needs change in the future, providing peace of mind for both you and your family.

Assisted living regulations and requirements in Nebraska

In Nebraska, assisted living facilities are regulated by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and are required to meet specific licensing and operational standards. These regulations ensure that residents receive appropriate care while maintaining their independence. The following outlines the primary regulations and requirements for assisted living facilities in the state:

1. Licensing Requirements

Assisted living facilities in Nebraska must obtain a license from the DHHS to operate legally. The licensing process includes an application submission, which details the facility’s structure, services, staff qualifications, and compliance with state and federal health and safety standards. The DHHS conducts inspections to verify that the facility meets these standards before issuing a license.

2. Facility Standards

The physical environment of an assisted living facility must meet specific requirements set by the DHHS. These include:

• Space and Design: Each resident must have a private or shared room that meets square footage requirements for both sleeping and living areas. Bathrooms, common areas, and dining rooms should be spacious and accessible.
• Safety Standards: Facilities must be equipped with fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exits to ensure resident safety. Additionally, all rooms must have windows and doors that provide adequate ventilation and light.
• Accessibility: The building must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair access to all areas.

3. Staffing and Qualifications

Nebraska regulations mandate specific staffing requirements to ensure that residents receive proper care. These include:

• Administrator: Each facility must have a licensed administrator who is responsible for overseeing operations. The administrator must meet education and experience requirements, including completing a state-approved training program.
• Direct Care Staff: Facilities must employ sufficient staff to provide 24-hour assistance to residents. Caregivers must have appropriate training and certifications in areas such as first aid, CPR, and specialized care for residents with conditions like dementia or mobility impairments.
• Staffing Ratios: While the state does not set specific staff-to-resident ratios, the facility must have enough staff to provide adequate care based on the residents’ needs.

4. Resident Rights

Residents in assisted living facilities in Nebraska have the right to:

• Privacy and Dignity: Facilities must respect residents' privacy, including the confidentiality of their medical and personal information.
• Personal Choice: Residents have the right to make decisions about their daily lives, including activities, meals, and medical care.
• Grievance Procedures: Facilities must have a system in place for residents to report complaints or grievances and have those concerns addressed in a timely manner.

5. Health and Medication Management

Assisted living facilities must comply with health and medication management regulations, which include:

• Medication Administration: Facilities may assist residents with self-administering medication or, in some cases, provide staff to administer medications. However, staff administering medications must receive training to do so safely.
• Healthcare Services: The facility must have a plan for coordinating healthcare services, including regular assessments of residents’ health needs. This includes access to medical professionals and emergency services if necessary.
• Dietary Requirements: Facilities must provide nutritious meals that meet the dietary needs of each resident, including special diets for those with specific health conditions.

6. Inspections and Compliance

The DHHS conducts regular inspections of assisted living facilities to ensure compliance with state regulations. Inspections focus on the facility’s physical environment, resident care practices, and staffing. If any violations are found, facilities must address the issues within a specified time frame to avoid penalties or suspension of their license.

7. Admission and Discharge Policies

Assisted living facilities in Nebraska are required to establish clear policies for admitting and discharging residents. These policies must be in line with the residents' needs and abilities. Facilities can only admit individuals who can benefit from the services provided but must have procedures in place for handling discharges, including when a resident’s care needs exceed the facility’s capabilities.

8. Emergency Preparedness

Facilities must have an emergency preparedness plan in place. This plan should address potential scenarios such as natural disasters, power outages, and medical emergencies. The plan must include clear evacuation procedures, resident and staff safety protocols, and communication strategies in case of emergencies.

9. Resident Care Plans

Each resident must have an individualized care plan that is developed upon admission and regularly reviewed. This plan must outline the resident's health conditions, personal preferences, and the types of assistance required. The care plan must be updated as the resident’s needs change.

The state of Nebraska is in both the Great Plains and the Midwestern regions of the United States. It is bordered to by South Dakota to the north, Iowa to the east, Missouri to the southeast, Kansas to the south, Colorado to the southwest, and Wyoming to the west. The population is 1.9 million which is the 37th highest in the nation, so any senior who is looking to live in a state that doesn't have too many people may find Nebraska a good choice for retirement. The state is large at 77,358 square miles, making it the 16th largest state in America, with a population density of 24.6 people per square mile which ranks 43rd in the country.

Nebraska’s nickname is the “Cornhusker State". Nebraska is home of the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team. In fact, when Memorial Stadium, the home of the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team, is full it holds more people than any Nebraska city except Lincoln and Omaha. The capital of Nebraska is Lincoln, but the city of Omaha is the largest city in the state. 89% of the cities in the state of Nebraska have fewer than 3,000 people. Of the 93 counties in Nebraska, 53 of them reported declining populations at the end of the last century while the urban areas have experienced tremendous growth. Nebraska has the 24th highest percentage of senior citizens in the country, with approximately 13.5% of Nebraskans age 65 or older. However, is this mainly rural Midwestern/Great Plains state a good choice for senior living?

Pros and Cons of Senior Living in Nebraska

We have gathered the pluses and minuses for seniors when choosing whether to live in and retire to Nebraska:

• Cost of Living – the state has a lower cost of living than the national average. The cities of Omaha, Hastings, and Lincoln are all cities with a cost of living that is lower than the national average;
• Low unemployment – Nebraska has the lowest rate of unemployment of all states at 2.5%, therefore retirees who are looking to supplement their income should have a relatively easy time finding a job;
• Outdoor Activities – Nebraska is known for its farming and rural areas, however there are also a surprising number of areas that are under the management of the National Park Service, including: Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Chimney Rock National Historic Site, California National Historical Trail, Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, the Oregon National Historic Trail, Missouri National Recreational River, the Pony Express National Historic Trail, and Scotts Bluff National Monument. Areas maintained by the National Forest Service include: the Nebraska National Forest, Oglala National Grassland, and Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest;
• Crime Rate – the rate of violent and property crimes in Nebraska is lower than the national average. On a scale from 1-100, violent crime in Nebraska ranks at a low 25, while property crime (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson) in Nebraska ranks at 33. The U.S. Average for violent crime is 31.1 and for property crimes it is 38.1;
• Cultural Activities – There are also ample cultural and entertainment activities for seniors living in Nebraska, particularly in the larger cities where there are art galleries and theaters;
• Taxes – Nebraska is not the most tax-friendly state for senior citizens;

Financial Information for Nebraska Seniors

Nebraska has an income tax that is divided into four brackets – ranging from 2.46% to 6.84%. Nebraska uses the same deductions standards that are used federally. Seniors can claim a larger standard deduction as can those that are blind. There are other exemptions as well, including:

• Nebraska Personal Exemption Credit – a credit equal to $130 per exemption claimed on your tax return which is non-refundable;
• Nebraska Child/Dependent Care Credit – this is available with AGI (adjusted gross income) less than $29,000, equal to between 100% and 30% of the federal credit;
• Nebraska Earned Income Credit – equal to 10% of the federal credit;
• Credit for Tax Paid to Another State – available to those who have paid income taxes in another state;
• Credit for the Elderly or Disabled – the same amount as the federal credit; and
• Beginning Farmer Credit – available to taxpayers who are deemed eligible for it by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.

Nebraska has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, with the average being 1.88%. That is the 6th highest effective property tax rate in the United States.

Nebraska has an inheritance tax but the amount due varies on the relationship of the inheritor to the person who died.

Nebraska is not a tax-friendly state for seniors, due to the following:

• Income from Social Security for Nebraska seniors is partially taxed;
• Withdrawals from retirement accounts for Nebraska senior citizens are fully taxed;
• Public pension income for seniors living in Nebraska is fully taxed; and
• Private pension income for Nebraska seniors is fully taxed.

The cost of living is lower in Nebraska than it is in other states with housing being the biggest difference. Out of 100 points, Nebraska ranked below the national average with a cost of living of 88.40. Nebraska rated higher the categories of overall (88), grocery (96.3), health (94), housing (74), transportation (95), utilities (99), and miscellaneous (84).

Places of Interest for Seniors Living in Nebraska

There is a number of things that could be interesting to senior citizens in Nebraska. Some of them include:

• Henry Doorly Zoo – located in Omaha, Nebraska – this is a world class zoo that is known for its breeding program of endangered species;
• Lauritzen Gardens – Omaha’s Botanical Center, located in the South Omaha, Nebraska. Seniors living in Nebraska can enjoy this combined arboretum and botanical garden which are open daily and an admission fee is charged.
• Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, also known as Scout’s Rest Ranch – located west of North Platte, Nebraska – a living history state park that was established in 1878 with 160 acres south of the Union Pacific tracks by Buffalo Bill Cody. The 4,000-acre ranch was sold in 1911 and has, since 1964, been under the management of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. 25-acres of the ranch is a historic state park and was dedicated as National Historic Landmark in 1978. It is open on weekdays from April to October and the house and outer building are open for tours, including a museum which documents Cody’s life from being a rider on the Pony Express to his Wild West shows;
• Carhenge – located in Alliance, Nebraska – this self-described “quirky” attraction is a replica of Stonehenge created from old automobiles;
• Lee G. Simons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari – located in Ashland, Nebraska – a drive-through adventure zoo which leads seniors and all other visitors through different lands and features animals such as Sandhill Cranes, antelope, and Buffalo. Most animals may be seen from the car, but the Wolf Woods section does require a short walk.
• Chimney Rock National Historic Site – located in Bayard, Nebraska – seniors living in Nebraska can check out this natural land rock formation that stands over 300 feet above the bordering North Platte River valley. The peak of Chimney Rock is 4,228 feet above sea level. This prominent rock formation served as a landmark along the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, and the Mormon Trail, during the mid-19th century. It is still visible for travelers today along Route 26 and Nebraska Highway 92;
• Mayhew Cabin and Historic Village – located in Nebraska City, Nebraska. It was built in 1865 and it is the sole recognized Underground Railroad place in. There is a hollowed-out area underneath the cave to illustrate where the escaping slaves were hidden;
• Great Platte River Road Archway Monument – located in Kearney, Nebraska – this arch spans Interstate 80, formerly the Great Platte River Road, which runs East to West, and holds 79,000 square feet of exhibits on both the route’s evolution and importance;
• Mormon Pioneer Cemetery – located in Omaha, Nebraska – the Mormon Pioneer Cemetery is located at 3301 State Street in present-day Florence in the northern part of Omaha. It is the burial site of hundreds of Mormon pioneers who lived in the area known as “Winters Quarters” which is now in North Omaha, Nebraska. Winters Quarters was the home to around 2,500 members of the “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” during the winter of 1846-1847 while they waited for better weather to continue their move westward. During their stay, they built more than 800 cabins and the settlement remained populated until 1848. However, 359 of the pioneers were buried at the site and three graves can still be seen today. There is a monument to commemorate the Mormon’s plight that was dedicated in 1836 by Salt Lake City artist Avard Fairbanks. The statue depicts parents who have committed the body of an infant to his grave; and
• Starke Round Barn – located near Red Cloud, Nebraska – this is the largest true round barn in the world and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is three stories high, 120 feet in diameter, 400 feet in circumference and the center silo has a diameter of 28 feet and is 60 feet high.

Some cities to consider for Nebraska Senior Living

Here are some cities or towns that could be an excellent choice in your search for a senior living community in Nebraska:

• Holdrege, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of Phelps County, Nebraska. The population of Holdrege, Nebraska is approximately 5,700 residents of which over 20% are seniors age 65 or older. Last year, Holdrege ranked #1 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #12 of 38 of the “Best Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #2 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Buy a House in Nebraska;
• Gering, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of, Scotts Bluff County – Gering is the 7th largest urban area in Nebraska and part of the Scottsbluff, Nebraska Micropolitan Statistical Area. The population of Gering is approximately 8,400 of which approximately 17% are age 65 or older. Last year, Gering ranked #14 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #3 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #21 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Live in Nebraska;”
• Blair, Nebraska – a city located in, and the county seat of, Washington County, Nebraska. Blair is part of the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population of Blair is approximately 8,000 of which around 15% of the population belongs to the senior community age 65 or older. Blair has its own hospital, the Memorial Community Hospital, and the county courthouse in town. Last year, Blair ranked #6 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #10 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #19 of 35 of the “Healthiest Places to Live in Nebraska;”
• Fremont, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of, Dodge County, Nebraska. Fremont is also located along the Platte River about 35 miles northwest of Omaha, and 50 miles northeast of Lincoln. Midland College is in Fremont. Last year, Fremont ranked #16 out of 135 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #11 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #16 out of 35 of the “Healthiest Places to Live in Nebraska;”
• Wayne, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of, Wayne County, Nebraska. Wayne is also home to Wayne State College. The population of Wayne, Nebraska is approximately 5,690 of which around 12.5% are age 65 or older. Last year, Wayne ranked #8 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #17 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Buy a House in Nebraska” and #8 out of 39 of the “Best Places to Live in Nebraska;”
• McCook, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of, Red Willow County, Nebraska. McCook is the home to the only house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The population of McCook is estimated to be around 7,500 people with approximately 20% of the seniors living in McCook who are age 65 or older. Last year, McCook ranked #4 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #7 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska,” #9 out of 35 of the “Healthiest Places to Buy a House in Nebraska,” and #18 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Buy a House in Nebraska;”
• Nebraska City, Nebraska – a city located in, and the county seat of, Otoe County, Nebraska. Nebraska City has been designated by the Nebraska State Legislature as the oldest incorporated city in the state. It is also the home of Arbor Day, the Lewis and Clark Center, and the Mayhew Cabin - the latter is the only site in the state recognized as a station on the Underground Railroad. The population of Nebraska City, Nebraska is estimated to be around 7,300 with over 20% seniors who are 65 years of age or older. Last year, Nebraska City ranked #2 out of 35 of “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #12 of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #16 out of 38 of the “Most Diverse Place to Live in Nebraska;”
• Wahoo, Nebraska – located in, and the county seat of, Saunders County, Nebraska. Wahoo was the home of the John F. Kennedy College which has since closed. The population of Wahoo, Nebraska is approximately 4,500 residents, with almost 21.5% of residents belong to the 65+ senior community. Last year, Wahoo ranked #3 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #24 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Raise a Family in Nebraska,” and #6 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska;”
• Kearney, Nebraska – located in Buffalo County, Nebraska. This is the city where University of Nebraska at Kearney is located. The population of Kearney is approximately 32,000 with close to 11% of whom are age 65 or older. Last year, Kearney ranked #11 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #3 out of 38 of the “Best Places to Live in Nebraska,” and #4 out of 35 of the “Healthiest Places to Live in Nebraska; and
• Bennington, Nebraska – located in Douglas County, Nebraska. Bennington was originally called Bunz Town but was changed to be named after Bennington, Vermont. The population of Bennington is approximately 1,700 with 13% of that population who are seniors age 65 or older. Last year, Bennington ranked #20 out of 35 of the “Best Places to Retire in Nebraska,” #2 out of 13 of the “Best Suburbs to Live in Omaha Metro,” and #4 out of 28 of the “Safest Places to Live in Nebraska.”

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