As an aging loved one faces health challenges, we must often make important decisions regarding their care to ensure their safety and quality of life. Home care and home health care are two common options for seniors who need extra support but want to remain in their own home.
Explore the differences between home care and home health care to make more informed decisions.
What are some of the differences between home care and home health care?
Home care
Home care is a broad term that often covers a wide range of non-medical services provided in an older adult’s own home. The services are personalized to the individual and primarily assist with daily living activities to promote independence.
Home care can be a great solution for seniors recovering from an illness or surgery who do not require medical attention but can benefit from additional support, including:
- Personal hygiene: bathing, grooming, and dressing
- Meal preparation: grocery shopping, cooking, and special diet monitoring
- Mobility assistance: support with transfers and walking
- Transportation: driving and escorting to appointments and social activities
- Companionship: engaging in social interactions and activities for emotional and mental stimulation
- Housekeeping and laundry: light chores like laundry, cleaning, and keeping the living space safe and comfortable
- Medication reminders: ensuring medications are taken on time and are the correct dose
Home care is typically provided through a licensed personal support services agency. Services are not usually covered by Medicare but may qualify for long-term care insurance coverage or as a VA Aid and Attendance benefit.
Medical home health care
Medical home health care is tailored for older adults who need medical assistance at home. Services are usually prescribed by a primary care provider when someone needs professional home health care after hospitalization, surgery, or during an illness. Medical home health care typically includes the following services:
- Skilled nursing: administering medication, wound care, monitoring vitals, managing chronic conditions, and other medical needs that require a licensed professional
- Physical therapy: assisting older adults with exercises and treatments to improve mobility and strength
- Occupational therapy: helping seniors regain their ability to perform activities of daily living
- Speech therapy: providing rehabilitative services for speech, language, and swallowing challenges
- Medical social services: offering counseling and resources to help aging adults with social and emotional concerns related to their health
- Home health aides: assisting with personal care under the supervision of a nurse or therapist
Medical home health care is frequently provided by licensed professionals, such as registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), physical therapists (PT), occupational therapists (OT), and speech-language pathologists (SLP). These services may be covered by private health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid.
What to consider when deciding about home care
When deciding between home care and medical home health care for your loved one, consider the following areas:
- Level of care needed
- Duration and frequency
- Insurance coverage
- Goals of care
Understanding the differences between home care and medical home health care can help ensure your loved one receives the best support and care to remain independent in their own home.
Are you ready to explore in-home care?
Download our free guide, “Compassionate Support from the Comfort of Home: A Guide to Abe’s Garden at Home,” to help you understand the options available to you and your loved one. You’ll learn about our approach, the benefits of in-home care, our service offerings, and how to get started.