Home Healthcare vs. Home Care: Understanding the Differences for Your Loved Ones
When it comes to caring for an aging family member, understanding the differences between home healthcare and home care is crucial. Both services aim to support seniors in their homes, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct types of assistance. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide which service is right for your loved one.
Home Care
What It Is
Home care, also known as non-medical home care, focuses on helping with daily activities and personal needs. It is provided by trained caregivers and is not usually covered by health insurance, but may be covered by long-term care insurance or paid out-of-pocket.
Services Offered
Personal Care – Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
Companionship – Social interaction, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.
Errands and Transportation – Help with grocery shopping, doctor’s appointments, and other outings.
When to Choose Home Care
Your loved one needs help with everyday tasks but does not require medical care.
They could benefit from companionship and assistance to maintain their independence at home.
You need respite care to take a break from caregiving responsibilities.
Home Healthcare
What It Is
Home healthcare involves medical care provided by licensed professionals such as nurses, therapists, and home health aides. This service is typically prescribed by a doctor and is often covered by Medicare or other health insurance plans.
Services Offered
Skilled Nursing Care – Wound care, administering medications, monitoring vital signs.
Physical Therapy – Exercises to improve mobility and strength.
Occupational Therapy – Assistance with daily activities like dressing and bathing.
Speech Therapy – Help with communication and swallowing issues.
When to Choose Home Healthcare
Your loved one has a chronic illness or is recovering from surgery.
They need regular monitoring or medical treatments that cannot be self-administered.
A doctor has recommended a specific medical care plan.
Making the Right Choice
To decide between home healthcare and home care, consider your loved one’s specific needs:
✔ If they need medical attention or therapy, home healthcare is the appropriate choice.
✔ If they need help with daily activities and companionship, home care will be more suitable.
At Home Care Angels, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about your loved one’s care. We offer both home healthcare and home care services tailored to meet your family’s unique needs.
Call us at 602-920-6862
Email us at lana@homecareangelsca.com
By choosing the right type of care, you can ensure your family member receives the support they need while maintaining their independence and quality of life.