Within the long-term care space, LeadingAge Nebraska stands as a beacon of light, relentlessly pursuing an agenda of support and care for older adults across the state. For over four decades, this state association has been diligently working to provide resources, champion the rights, and enhance the quality of life of our seniors.
Originally established in February 1975 as the Nebraska Association of Homes for the Aging, Inc. (NAHA), the association underwent strategic rebranding processes in December 1995 and November 2010. The journey culminated in adopting the name LeadingAge Nebraska, a change synchronized with the national organization American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA’s) rebranding to LeadingAge.
LeadingAge Nebraska provides pragmatic and cost-effective educational opportunities, acting as Nebraska’s premier resource for education. Its efforts have moved countless mission-driven providers to strive toward excellence in serving older adults. Through its unwavering senior care advocacy and continual collaboration, the association bolsters members’ capability to make a positive impact on the lives of Nebraska’s older population.
Championing the rights of older adults
The overarching mission of LeadingAge Nebraska—and its parent organization, LeadingAge National—is to broaden the world of possibilities for aging through unrelenting advocacy, top-tier education, and meaningful collaboration. By providing a voice for provider members, LeadingAge Nebraska asserts itself as an advocate that propels the cause of aging into the limelight, compelling changes that improve the lives of older Nebraskans.
LeadingAge National is an extensive network of more than 6,000 mission-focused organizations that share the same passion for expanding the realm of possibilities for aging. In this grand initiative, the collective strength of these organizations fosters a more profound impact, stimulating a nationwide transformation in the treatment of the aging population. They further policies, endorses practices, and instigate research that underpins, facilitates, and enables people to live fuller, richer lives as they age.
The Most Recent LeadingAge Nebraska Annual Conference
As we stride further into the year, we can’t help but look back at some of the highlights of LeadingAge conferences nationwide. As always, the LeadingAge Nebraska 2023 Annual Conference & Expo held on March 22-23 was an exceptional event.
Held at the Holiday Inn Kearney in Kearney, Nebraska, this conference united aging services leaders from across Nebraska in hopes of effecting positive change and improving the lives of older adults, irrespective of their residential location. Perhaps most notably, Janine Finck-Boyle, VP of Health Policy & Regulatory Affairs at LeadingAge National, made an appearance on the LTC Heroes podcast at the event and shared various tools available to LeadingAge members.
The social events at LeadingAge Nebraska provided an excellent opportunity for attendees to build rapport, foster relationships, and create a sense of community among the agents of change. DeDe Will, director of Finance at Douglas County Health Center, discussed the close contacts developed at LeadingAge Nebraska on the LTC Heroes podcast.
A noteworthy addition to the conference was a focused pre-conference program on March 21. Aimed at owners, C-suite, Executive Directors, and Board Members, this prelude to the main event began at 1:30 pm and provided a deeper dive into the strategies that drive our mission.
The evening also featured a Cocktail Hour, creating a relaxed atmosphere for networking and discussions, followed by an exclusive PAC Dinner.
As we forge ahead, we hold onto the lessons, inspirations, and connections from the conference, all of which propel us further in our journey to enhance the lives of older adults across Nebraska.
Meanwhile, the LeadingAge Nebraska expo showcased a plethora of innovative products, new long-term care software modules, and other services.
Contact us here for an innovative EHR solution designed to streamline healthcare processes and improve outcomes for Nebraska’s senior citizens.
Things To Do in Nebraska While at a LeadingAge Convention
While attending a LeadingAge Nebraska convention, one might be looking for things to do in Nebraska while attending this annual meeting of the state’s best long-term care providers. In this section, we’ll list some of the state’s best attractions, blending natural wonders, history, and city buzz. Here are ten must-visit sites:
- Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium: This fun-filled animal park features captivating exhibits, presenting an opportunity to explore the diverse animal kingdom. Considered one of the best zoos globally, this site allows for unforgettable encounters with a variety of wildlife animals.
- Old Market in Omaha: The Old Market is the beating heart of downtown Omaha’s culture and social scene. This charming neighborhood, bustling with cobblestone streets, unique shops, vibrant art galleries, and savory dining, offers an authentic taste of the city’s character and serves as a great stop on your way to and from a LeadingAge convention
- Strategic Air and Space Museum: This museum is a treasure trove for aviation and space enthusiasts, boasting an impressive collection of aircraft, nuclear missiles, and spacecraft. It’s an excellent place to delve into the history and future of air and space travel and is loved by young and older adults as well.
- Chimney Rock National Historic Site: This prominent rock formation was a navigational landmark for early pioneers. The visitor’s center provides educational exhibits on western migration, enriching your understanding of Nebraska’s historical significance.
- Haymarket District: In the historic downtown area of Lincoln, the Haymarket District brims with notable buildings, shops, restaurants, and galleries. The lively atmosphere of this district offers an engaging experience of Nebraska’s urban charm.
- Scotts Bluff National Monument: For nature and adventure enthusiasts, the vast national park at Scotts Bluff is a must-visit. The overland trails, prairies, badlands, and bluffs make for an exciting array of hiking excursions, delivering panoramic views of Nebraska’s landscape.
- Golden Spike Tower: Standing tall in North Platte, the Golden Spike Tower offers unmatched views of the world’s largest rail yard, Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard. This perspective into the heart of America’s railroad system is as informative as it is awe-inspiring.
- Indian Cave State Park: This preservation site offers a blend of history and recreation. Explore the namesake cave, trek through hiking trails, or engage in other outdoor activities, all while soaking in the serene beauty of this state park.
- Carhenge: For a touch of quirky roadside Americana, head to Carhenge – a full-scale replica of England’s Stonehenge, crafted entirely out of vintage American vehicles. This unique attraction guarantees an unforgettable photo op.
- The Sandhills: End your Nebraska exploration on a peaceful note amidst the mixed-grass prairie of The Sandhills. This stunning natural attraction, with rolling dunes and abundant wildlife, presents boundless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
LeadingAge Nebraska: How To Get Involved
LeadingAge Nebraska, in cooperation with LeadingAge National, stands tall as the representative of non-profit providers of senior housing and services in Nebraska. Members spread across the state, work relentlessly to serve Nebraska’s elders.
A LeadingAge Nebraska membership offers a myriad of benefits that enhance both professional and personal development in the aging services sector:
- Advocacy: LeadingAge Nebraska prioritizes advocating for its members in areas of regulation, legislation, and other issues that impact their residents. The organizers engage with members of the legislature to prevent cuts in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, safeguarding the interests of their members.
- Education: Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, LeadingAge Nebraska provides state-approved, high-quality continuing education opportunities that serve both staff and residents, nurturing growth and innovation in the sector.
- LeadingAge National: In addition to state-level benefits, members also gain access to the resources of the nationwide organization. These include essential member services, group purchasing opportunities, national advocacy, industry updates, and the unique opportunity to shape the future of aging services.
- Networking: Being a member of LeadingAge Nebraska opens doors for valuable networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with peers, share innovative ideas, and collectively address industry challenges.
One should note that there are four distinct categories of membership:
- Provider Member: This category is for any provider of senior housing and services.
- Business Associate: This membership type is open to organizations that provide products and services to the Long-Term Care Community.
- Individual: Individuals not affiliated with an organization eligible for member status but interested in the care and services for older persons can gain this membership.
- Student: Students enrolled in formal training programs preparing for employment in providing care and/or services to older persons can apply for this membership category, which is free of charge.
Also, LeadingAge Nebraska hosts “Getting to Know LeadingAge NE Information Sessions” on Zoom, typically held on the last Thursday of every month. These sessions provide comprehensive insights into the organization’s mission, work, and the many benefits of joining their ranks.
By joining LeadingAge Nebraska, one becomes part of a broader mission to create a future where every Nebraskan elder can lead a life of dignity and fulfillment.
For more on recent trends in long-term care, read our blog and subscribe to the LTC Heroes podcast.
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