This program provides funds for a range of services that make it easier for families to care for a loved one at home. Participants can choose to pay family members or other persons who provide them with caregiving services.
Are you a family caregiver in Nebraska helping a loved one with a disability? The state's Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program may be able to provide financial assistance and services to allow your loved one to continue living at home instead of entering a facility. Are you eligible for home health care?
What is Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support?
The DPFS program provides cash benefits of up to $300 per month to pay for services that help disabled persons live independently in their own homes or the homes of a friend or family member. The program also prevents or delays nursing home placement.
Goals of Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support
The main goals are to promote independence for disabled individuals and support family caregivers. It does this by funding home and community-based services as an alternative to institutional long-term care. The program allows participants to self-direct their care.
Services offered under Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support
- Personal caregiving assistance with activities of daily living
- Home health care/skilled nursing services
- Housekeeping help (cleaning, laundry, yard work)
- Non-medical transportation services
- Home accessibility modifications (ramps, walk-in showers, etc.)
- Vehicle modifications to allow transport
- Assistive technology devices and medical equipment
- Respite care services to relieve family caregivers
Eligibility for Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support
Age and residency requirements
- Applicants must be legal residents of Nebraska. This program has no age requirements, meaning people of all ages are eligible to apply.
Health and disability requirements
- Care recipients must have a documented physical, intellectual, or developmental disability significantly affecting their ability to live and function independently. Disabilities can include conditions like Alzheimer's disease, severe diabetes, and other common medical conditions.
Financial requirements
For 2023, the monthly income limit was $1,364 for a single person and $1,784 for a couple. However, many medical expenses can be deducted from countable income. The asset limits are $7,280 for singles and $10,930 for couples, with exemptions for homes and vehicles.
How do family caregivers get paid with Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support?
One significant benefit of this program is its consumer/self-directed model. This allows participants to hire care providers, including family members and set the monthly pay rate within the program's budget. Caregivers are paid directly by the participant.
Apply to Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support
Here are the main steps to apply for services through Nebraska's DPFS program:
- Gather documentation of your disability, residency status, income, and assets.
- Complete the DPFS program application form.
- Submit the application along with the required documentation.
- Participate in an assessment to determine your service needs.
- If approved, work with a coordinator to hire providers and set up services.
What documents do I need to apply for Nebraska Disabled Persons and Family Support?
To apply, you'll need to provide:
- Proof of disability: Medical records, doctor's statements, or evaluations that confirm your disability and its impact on daily life.
- Nebraska residency: A valid driver's license, state ID, or utility bill showing your current address.
- Income verification: Proof of your loved one's income, including pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit award letters.
- Records of assets: Disclose assets your loved one owns, like real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, or investments.
Where do I submit the documents?
Applications and documentation should be submitted to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Medicaid and Long-Term Care.
For family caregivers in Nebraska who assist loved ones with disabilities, the Disabled Persons and Family Support program offers a valuable option for accessing home and community-based services. By allowing participants to self-direct their care, the program provides family caregiver support to help disabled individuals successfully age at home.
