My dad is very lonely and often homebound. My uncle goes over and sees him once in a while and I live 6 hours away. Is there such a thing as adult day care that takes Medicare and Medicaid, or is non profit? I just don't want to see him sad and alone anymore. His homehealth aid could drive him there I bet.
I just googled Vermillion, SD and found that there is a senior center. You might want to contact them, ask about daily activities, transit, and if they publish a newsletter. My father's senior center creates a very professional newsletter, listing activities and the Meals on Wheels menus for 2 months.
Some activities are free (such as the senior health expos) but others do require payment. E.g., the holiday meals were usually about $8 - $10 for seniors, less I believe for seniors who are members of the center. Holiday bazaars are held and there are some good activities, ones that I would have attended if I had the time.
The VA also has a "friendly visitor" program for veterans.
Does your father have any specific interests such as reading? In our area the libraries in the better managed community have book clubs and special events. Some publish monthly newsletters as well.
Two of them are really fantastic for their music programs. We used to go to both when the Saline Fiddlers played. They're a group of teenagers who play string instruments faster than any professional. It's a really, rousing, foot stomping, high energy event, for free.
Many of the little children love it too. They get up close to the stage/platform and start dancing "to their own beat."
These events were really highlights of the month for Dad and me.
Some churches also have musical programs in the summer. Usually they're outdoors though, so seating might be a problem. And that raises another issue - can the aide play CDs for him? It's not necessarily companionship, but music certainly can raise a person's spirits.
You might also try the Visiting Nurse's Assoc. Mine is quite large and they have volunteer visitors to homebound folks. As does my church.
As for pricing I dont think insurance will cover it. At least for my grandpa they wouldnt. But I would look around for Senior Centers or Adult "Daycares" and ask them about their pricing and transportation. You might find some place thats just right for you both!
Best of luck!