Off Broadway Blog | Broken Bow, NE

Can My Family Afford Assisted Living?

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 16:35:30 GMT

Comparing the Costs: Living at Home vs. Living at Off Broadway Apartments

When a loved one begins to need extra support, one of the biggest questions families ask is, "Can we afford assisted living?" At first glance, remaining at home may seem like the less expensive option. However, when all the costs of maintaining a home and providing care are added together, many families are surprised to learn that assisted living can provide greater value, predictability, and peace of mind.

If you're considering a move to Off Broadway Apartments in Broken Bow, it's important to compare the true cost of living at home versus living in a supportive senior community.

The Hidden Costs of Staying at Home

Many families only think about mortgage or rent payments when calculating the cost of living at home. However, there are often numerous additional expenses:

Housing Expenses

Mortgage or rent
Property taxes
Homeowners insurance
Utilities
Internet and telephone services
Home maintenance and repairs
Lawn care and snow removal

These monthly expenses continue whether a senior needs assistance or not.

Caregiving Costs

As health needs increase, families often find themselves paying for:

In-home caregivers
Medication management assistance
Transportation services
Housekeeping
Meal preparation
Personal care support

Even a few hours of caregiving assistance each week can add hundreds or thousands of dollars to a monthly budget.

Family Caregiver Costs

Often overlooked are the emotional and financial costs to family members who step into caregiver roles:

Missed work hours
Lost income opportunities
Travel expenses
Increased stress and burnout

These costs may not appear on a monthly bill, but they can significantly impact family well-being.

What's Included at Off Broadway Apartments?

Unlike managing multiple bills and service providers, assisted living offers predictable monthly expenses.

Residents at Off Broadway Apartments enjoy access to services and amenities that can replace many of the costs associated with living independently.

Benefits may include:

Comfortable housing
Utilities
Housekeeping services
Meal services
Social and recreational activities
Staff available for assistance
Maintenance-free living
Opportunities for social engagement and community connection

Instead of coordinating several different services, families receive the convenience of one community-focused solution.

Beyond Dollars and Cents

A financial comparison is important, but quality of life matters too.

Many seniors living alone experience:

Social isolation
Difficulty keeping up with household responsibilities
Concerns about safety
Increased anxiety about health changes

At Off Broadway Apartments, residents are part of a vibrant community where opportunities for friendship, activities, and support are available every day.

Families often tell us that one of the greatest benefits is the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is in a safe and supportive environment.

Questions to Ask When Comparing Costs

When evaluating home living versus assisted living, consider:

✓ What is the total monthly cost of the home?

✓ How much is being spent on caregiving services?

✓ Who provides transportation, housekeeping, and meal preparation?

✓ How much time are family members dedicating to caregiving?

✓ Would additional care likely be needed in the future?

✓ What value does socialization and community support provide?

Looking at the complete picture often leads to a very different conclusion than simply comparing rent payments alone.

Every family's situation is unique. The goal is not simply to find the lowest monthly expense, but to find the best combination of affordability, safety, support, and quality of life.

At Off Broadway Apartments in Broken Bow, we encourage families to have open conversations about both financial considerations and personal needs. A thoughtful comparison can help everyone feel confident about the next chapter.

Schedule a Tour

If you're wondering whether assisted living may be a good fit for your loved one, we'd love to help. Contact Off Broadway Apartments to schedule a tour, ask questions, and learn how our community can support your family while providing value, comfort, and peace of mind.

"The true value of assisted living isn't measured only in dollars saved, but in the peace of mind, safety, and quality of life gained."

Choosing Assisted Living With Love

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:03:15 GMT

Guide for Families Facing a Difficult Decision

There are few decisions more emotional than choosing an assisted living facility for someone you love.

You may be wondering whether you are making the right choice. You may feel guilty, overwhelmed, or even afraid that your family member will think you are giving up on them. You may spend hours comparing facilities, reading reviews, asking questions, and wondering whether you could somehow find an option that feels perfect.

Take a breath.

You do not have to find a perfect facility. You are looking for a safe, caring place where your loved one can be supported, respected, and able to live with as much dignity and independence as possible.

It Is Okay to Feel Conflicted

Choosing assisted living can bring many emotions at once. Relief may exist alongside sadness. Hope can coexist with guilt. You might know that additional support is needed while still wishing circumstances were different.

Those feelings do not mean you are making the wrong decision.

In fact, feeling emotional about the decision often reflects how deeply you care. Moving a loved one into assisted living is not a measure of how much you love them. Sometimes, seeking additional care is one of the most loving things a family can do.

You are not abandoning your family member.

You are helping make sure they have support when they need it.

Focus on What Your Loved One Needs

When every facility begins to look similar, return to the person at the center of the decision.

Think about what makes your loved one feel comfortable and valued. Consider their routines, personality, interests, mobility, social needs, dietary preferences, and level of independence.

Ask yourself:

Will they have opportunities to make choices about their daily life?
Will staff take time to know them as an individual?
Does the environment feel welcoming rather than institutional?
Are activities available that they would genuinely enjoy?
Can the facility accommodate their current needs and likely future needs?
Does the staff communicate respectfully with residents and families?

A beautiful building can be wonderful, but the quality of the people caring for your loved one matters enormously.

Trust What You Notice During a Visit

When you tour a facility, pay attention to more than the dining room, floor plan, and amenities.

Watch how employees interact with residents.

Do staff members greet residents by name? Do residents appear comfortable approaching them? Are people treated with patience and dignity? Does the atmosphere feel calm and welcoming?

Notice the small things.

Sometimes a warm conversation between a caregiver and resident can tell you more than a polished brochure.

And remember that you are interviewing the facility just as much as the facility is evaluating your family. It is completely reasonable to ask difficult questions and take your time.

There May Not Be One Obvious Answer

Families sometimes expect the “right” facility to stand out immediately.

It may not.

One community might have wonderful activities but be farther from family. Another might be closer but have fewer amenities. One may feel beautiful while another has a more personal, home-like atmosphere.

There can be legitimate trade-offs.

Instead of asking, “Which facility is perfect?” try asking:

“Which place best fits my loved one's needs, personality, safety, and quality of life?”

That question can make the decision feel more manageable.

Give Yourself Permission to Take the Next Step

It is natural to second-guess yourself after making such an important decision.

You may wonder whether you should have waited longer. You may worry about how your loved one will adjust. You may replay every conversation and every facility tour in your mind.

Try to remember that this decision does not have to represent the rest of your loved one's life.

Needs can change. Circumstances can change. Facilities can change. Families can change.

What matters is making the best decision you can with the information you have today—and continuing to advocate for your loved one tomorrow.

Your Role Does Not End When They Move In

Assisted living does not mean you stop being your loved one's caregiver, advocate, child, spouse, sibling, or friend.

Your relationship can continue in a different way.

Visit when you can. Call. Bring familiar photographs or favorite belongings. Learn the names of caregivers. Participate in activities when appropriate. Listen to your loved one. Speak up when something does not seem right.

Most importantly, continue reminding them that they are loved.

A new residence does not change the family that surrounds them.

You Are Doing Something Difficult Because You Care

If you are currently standing at the beginning of this decision, please remember this:

You are not failing your loved one by asking for help.

You are not required to carry every responsibility alone.

Choosing assisted living can be painful, but it can also create opportunities for greater safety, companionship, support, and peace of mind—for your loved one and for your family.

There may be tears along the way. There may be uncertainty. There may even be days when you wonder whether you made the right decision.

When those moments come, remind yourself why you started.

You are trying to find a place where someone you love can be cared for, respected, and surrounded by people who can help them live their life as fully as possible.

That is not giving up. That is love taking a different form.

Peace of Mind

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:16:08 GMT

Enhancing life, supporting independence, and providing peace of mind.

A Simpler, Lighter Way to Live at Off Broadway Assisted & Independent Living

Margaret didn’t think she was ready to move.

Her house was full of memories. The kitchen table still had the scratch marks from years of family dinners. The spare bedroom held boxes she kept meaning to go through.

But lately, the stairs felt steeper.
The yard work took longer.
Cooking every night felt like more of a chore than a joy.

She didn’t want “help.”
She just wanted life to feel easier.

So one afternoon, she stopped by Off Broadway “just to look.”

What surprised her wasn’t the apartments.

It was the laughter.

A group of neighbors sat together with coffee, talking like old friends. Someone waved her over. Another asked if she was coming to bingo that night. Down the hall, the smell of lunch drifted out of the dining room.

It didn’t feel like a facility.

It felt like life.

Independent Living at Off Broadway is designed for moments exactly like that — when you’re not looking to give up your independence, just the stress that comes with maintaining a home.

No more mowing.
No more shoveling snow.
No more worrying about repairs.

Just a comfortable space that’s yours, with the freedom to spend your day however you choose.

Some residents cook in their own kitchens.
Some join friends in the dining room with our optional meal plans.
Some do both, depending on the day.

Because real life isn’t one-size-fits-all.

And now, with new lower rates for Independent Living , making the move is more attainable than ever.

It’s not about changing your lifestyle.
It’s about supporting it.

You keep your independence — we simply take care of the rest.

What many families appreciate most, though, is something you can’t see on a price sheet.

Peace of mind.

When you move into Off Broadway, you’re not just choosing today — you’re planning for tomorrow, too.

If your needs ever change, you don’t have to start over somewhere new. You can easily transition into Assisted Living right here, surrounded by the same neighbors, the same staff, the same familiar place.

No big moves.
No hard goodbyes.
No uncertainty.

Just continued care, when you need it.

A few weeks after her tour, Margaret made the move.

Now her mornings start slower. Sometimes she joins friends for breakfast. Sometimes she reads by the window. On Wednesdays she plays cards. On Fridays she never misses dessert night.

And every so often she says the same thing:

“I should have done this sooner.”

If you or someone you love is ready for fewer responsibilities, more connection, and a community that grows with you, we’d love to show you around.

Come visit. Have lunch with us. Meet the neighbors.

You might just find that lighter, easier chapter you’ve been hoping for.

Call (308) 872-2522 to schedule a tour.

An Afternoon with Paul Siebert: Music, Stories, and Connection at Off Broadway!

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 20:53:04 GMT

An Afternoon with Paul Siebert: Music, Stories, and Connection at Off Broadway! ��

�� Mark Your Calendar: February 25th at 2 PM
�� Where: Large Dining Room

Step into an afternoon of heartfelt music and community as we proudly present Paul Siebert , a true gem of Midwest entertainment. For over three decades, Paul has brought joy and connection to audiences with his incredible talent, featuring traditional instruments like the hammer dulcimer, captivating storytelling, and a dash of humor. His performances are a one-of-a-kind experience that transcends generations.

�� What to Look Forward To:

Authentic Folk Music: Let Paul’s melodies take you on a journey to a simpler, more peaceful time.
Refreshing Treats: Sip and snack while soaking in the ambiance.
A Welcoming Community: Join residents, friends, and neighbors for a delightful afternoon.

✨ Whether you’re looking for uplifting tunes or simply a reason to smile, Paul Siebert’s show promises to deliver! Bring a friend or two and make memories that will last.

�� Reach out if you have any questions or are looking for more information! (308) 872-2522

Experience the Spirit of the West with Joan Wells at Off Broadway!

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:23:14 GMT

�� Experience the Spirit of the West with Joan Wells! �� 

Off Broadway Apartments and Assisted Living is excited to invite you to a special performance by the talented Joan Wells!

�� Date: Thursday, January 30th
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
�� Location: Large Dining Room, Off Broadway Apartments and Assisted Living

Join us for an afternoon of nostalgia as Joan Wells brings the Old West to life with her captivating trail songs. This event is open to the public, so bring your friends and family to share in the experience!

Enjoy:
�� Authentic western trail songs performed live
�� Refreshments served during the event
�� A warm and welcoming community atmosphere

Don’t miss this unique celebration of music and history. Come for the songs, stay for the memories!

Questions? Contact us at (308) 872-2522

We look forward to welcoming you!

Happy New Year!

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 20:45:10 GMT

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from Off Broadway Assisted and Independent Living!

As we welcome in the new year, all of us at Off Broadway Assisted and Independent Living are filled with gratitude for our wonderful community of residents and staff. We hope this year brings joy, health, and happiness to all!

Celebrating Our Stars of the Month

This January, we are thrilled to recognize two incredible individuals who make Off Broadway such a special place.

Resident of the Month: Venia Whitesel Venia brings warmth and positivity to our community every day. Her kindness and vibrant spirit brighten the lives of everyone she meets. Thank you, Venia, for being an inspiring part of our family!

Staff Member of the Month: Halla Eggleston Halla, our Dietary Manager and Cook from Oconto, NE, goes above and beyond to ensure our residents enjoy delicious and nutritious meals. Thank you, Halla, for your outstanding contributions!

Here’s to a Great Year Ahead

We’re excited about all the opportunities 2025 will bring to celebrate, connect, and create cherished memories together. Thank you for being part of the Off Broadway family. Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Off Broadway Assisted and Independent Living (308) 872-2522

Here we are all family!

🎉 You’re Invited: A Warm Welcome to Our New Administrator, Felishia Brock! 🎉

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 16:13:09 GMT

�� You’re Invited: A Warm Welcome to Our New Administrator, Felishia Brock! ��

Off Broadway Apartments and Assisted Living is thrilled to announce that Felishia Brock has continued to serve our community as our new administrator! With her exceptional leadership, compassionate spirit, and dedication to excellence, we are excited to see how she will help our community flourish.

To celebrate this exciting new chapter, we’re hosting a special Welcome Party in her honor, and you’re invited!

�� Date: Saturday, January 25th
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM
�� Location: Off Broadway Apartments and Assisted Living

Join us for an afternoon of fun, refreshments, and an opportunity to meet Felishia in person. Whether you’re a resident, family member, or part of the local community, this is a great chance to connect, share stories, and learn about her vision for the future of Off Broadway.

Let’s come together to give Felishia Brock a warm and heartfelt welcome! ��

RSVP: If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us at (308) 872-2522

We can’t wait to see you there!

Great Improvements Coming to Off Broadway

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 19:06:58 GMT

Great Improvements Coming to Off Broadway!

The Off Broadway Board of Directors is happy to announce the receipt of a $500,000 grant from DHHS and the ARPA Home and Community. We would like to thank Nancy Ferguson for helping write the grant, Paul Brungard for helping with the design, and Jodi & the staff for their input. The grant will provide for an addition and remodeling of the facility. This will enable Off Broadway to add more services for the residents and community.

We will be adding:

• A Gathering Room, which will allow private dining experiences with family and friends;

• An Activities Room with a full kitchen, which will include a nutritional center Clinic Room where additional services will be added;

• A New Medication Room with a private nurse's office;

• A Fitness Room for the residents; and

• A new ice cream parlor for residents, staff and visitors to enjoy.

We will also be able to update the Large Dining Room. This grant will help us improve the quality of life for our residents and give them even more opportunities to remain independent and self-sufficient. We are hoping for completion of this project in the fall of 2024.

We are looking for certified contractors for this project. If you know someone who would be interested, please have them call Jodi at (308) 872-2522. This is very exciting for Off Broadway Apartments!

Off Broadways Summer Bash

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 19:44:30 GMT

Off Broadway Hosts Ice Cream & Tours

This past Friday on July fourteenth we held an open house to celebrate our Summer Bash during Alumni Weekend! Our day here at Off Broadway was full of delicious ice cream Sundays for our residents and guests to enjoy. We had every topping you could imagine. Our staff also provided tours for our guests throughout our fun filled afternoon!

The Summer Bash at Off Broadway is a spectacular deal! If you decide to make Off Broadway your home during the months of July and August, you will receive your first month of rent free!

If you are interested in a tour or more information please call the facility at (308) 872-2552

Check out Off Broadway's new short term stay option

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 06:36:52 GMT

Its ok to ask for help...we are here for you.

Off Broadway is excited to announce our new short term stay program.

Do you need help caring for your loved one? Are you exhausted and need time for yourself? Is it putting a strain on your relationships? There is no shame in asking for help.
Have you had surgery or a health concern and you are not quite ready to go home by yourself?

Off Broadway is here to help you with our new short term stay program. Call us today to see how we can help you with your unique

needs. Our staff is kind, compassionate and understanding. Let us extend that to you today. For only $175 a day you will receive help

with your medications, a clean, comfortable and beautifully decorated apartment, fun activities and great food. This beautiful room

is ready for you to live in today! All you need to bring with you is your personal items: toiletries, clothes, medications and cell phone for

personal use.

Call us today at 308-872-2522 and let us help you!

Home sweet home at Off Broadway

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 18:42:11 GMT

This apartment might be just what you are looking for!

Call us today at 308-872-2522 about this clean and cozy 505 square foot apartment. Nice kitchen, living room and bedroom with an attached bathroom. A very spacious walk in closet for all your storage. This apartment can be decorated with your own things in your own taste. Come for a tour today!

APARTMENT OF THE WEEK

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 05:04:02 GMT

One bedroom apartment available now

This one bedroom beautiful apartment is available today! It has 505 sq feet of warm and cozy living space to be decorated just as you would like it. Call us today at 308-872-2522 for more information.

Tanner Hill, you are deeply appreciated.

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:03:18 GMT

Off Broadway's in-house beautician.

Tanner Hill is a very valuable and appreciated employee at Off Broadway. Tanner has worked at Off Broadway for almost two years. She is a med aid/caregiver. Recently, Tanner stepped up to be Off Broadway's fill in beautician. She got her license renewed for the soul purpose of helping our residents. Tanner got her love of doing hair from her Aunt TeeAnn. She said, "I love to see the residents eyes brighten after they get their hair done. They look so nice. It makes them feel better about their day." That is the reason that Tanner renewed her license to be our in house beautician. Tanner has been married to Skylar for ten years. They make their home between Mason City and Ansley Nebraska. She grew up in Hayes Center. That is where most of her family lives today. When asked what her favorite hobbies are, she smiled and said, "My family is the most important thing in the world to me." Tanner has a dog named Dianna. She is a blue healer and she is Tanner's baby. Tanner and her husband are remodeling their house in their "spare" time! Tanner is a very dedicated employee of Off Broadway. She builds resident morale. Tanner we appreciate you so much. There is a dedication and kindness in your heart that is not surpassed. We are lucky to have you as part of our Off Broadway family. You are appreciated.

Broken Bow Trunk or Treat!

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 16:06:53 GMT

Lots of candy and cute little kids!

On Friday October 30th Off Broadway participated in the Broken Bow chamber of commerce trunk or treat event. Much fun was had by all. I would estimate we had 350 to 400 kiddos! We saw everything from Raggedy Ann and Andy to dinosaurs and they were all so cute!

Hope you enjoy the pictures. It was a wonderful event and we are so thankful to be a part of it!

Assisted living week events!

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 16:47:09 GMT

National assisted living week was enjoyed by all!

Rhubarb Pie Recipe

Fri, 22 May 2020 21:39:45 GMT

Best Rhubarb Pie

Hello everybody! It's Teri. Today I have decided to share my favorite Rhubarb Pie recipe. Hope you can try it! Let me know how it turns out for you! Have a happy Memorial Day:)

Ingredients:

3 cups of chopped rhubarb

1 1/2 cups of sugar

2 eggs

3 Tablespoons of flour

Directions:

Stir together the rhubarb filling. Dump in your unbaked crust and place a second crust over the top. Crimp the edges of the crust. Cut some steam slits in the top crust and sprinkle with white sugar. Bake for ten minutes at 425 degrees. Turn oven down to 350 degrees and bake an additional 35 minutes.........ENJOY!

I have a really good bottom crust recipe that doesn't need rolled out. If you would like it, let me know and I will post it.

Teri

Thank you from the Off Broadway team!!

Fri, 15 May 2020 15:01:29 GMT

Off Broadway thanks you!

The staff and board of directors at Off Broadway would like to express our deepest thanks to each one of you. Whether it was a donation of hand sanitizer or time given, it was deeply appreciated. Thank you Tanner Hill, Janet Kalinowski, Prairie Eye Care, Runza, Pizza Hut, Rod sonnichsen and local government offices, The Quilt Shack & Susie Walker, Wenquists, Solomons Family Dentistry, Michelle Cantu, Ryen Haines & friends, Tabitha Keller, Nancy Hardy, Mike Bell & family, Bow Family Furniture, Dairy Queen, Karen Bredthauer, Jacki Ryan, Dave & Tammy Hendrickson, Cindy Vose, KAAPA Ethenol, Sampson Construction, AGP Inc., Alexis Pflaster, Joanne Rice Family, Beth Smith, Tracey Jones, UNL, Nebraska State Patrol, Loup Basin Public Health Department. Each one of you has filled a spot in our hearts that couldn't be filled by anyone else!

If we have overlooked a name please excuse us and know we are so thankful for everything you did or gave. God bless.

Welcome to the New Off Broadway Website!

delta@huntrex.com (Mitch Hunt) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 18:24:06 GMT

Off Broadway Blog | Broken Bow, NE

Can My Family Afford Assisted Living?

Comparing the Costs: Living at Home vs. Living at Off Broadway Apartments

Choosing Assisted Living With Love

Guide for Families Facing a Difficult Decision

It Is Okay to Feel Conflicted

Focus on What Your Loved One Needs

Trust What You Notice During a Visit

There May Not Be One Obvious Answer

Give Yourself Permission to Take the Next Step

Your Role Does Not End When They Move In

You Are Doing Something Difficult Because You Care

Peace of Mind

Enhancing life, supporting independence, and providing peace of mind.

A Simpler, Lighter Way to Live at Off Broadway Assisted & Independent Living

An Afternoon with Paul Siebert: Music, Stories, and Connection at Off Broadway!

An Afternoon with Paul Siebert: Music, Stories, and Connection at Off Broadway! ��

Experience the Spirit of the West with Joan Wells at Off Broadway!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Celebrating Our Stars of the Month

Here’s to a Great Year Ahead

🎉 You’re Invited: A Warm Welcome to Our New Administrator, Felishia Brock! 🎉

Great Improvements Coming to Off Broadway

Great Improvements Coming to Off Broadway!

Off Broadways Summer Bash

Off Broadway Hosts Ice Cream & Tours

Check out Off Broadway's new short term stay option

Its ok to ask for help...we are here for you.

Home sweet home at Off Broadway

This apartment might be just what you are looking for!

APARTMENT OF THE WEEK

One bedroom apartment available now

Tanner Hill, you are deeply appreciated.

Off Broadway's in-house beautician.

Broken Bow Trunk or Treat!

Lots of candy and cute little kids!

Assisted living week events!

National assisted living week was enjoyed by all!

Rhubarb Pie Recipe

Best Rhubarb Pie

Thank you from the Off Broadway team!!

Off Broadway thanks you!

Welcome to the New Off Broadway Website!

Welcome to Off Broadway's website!