If you’re navigating the world of senior care for the first time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the terms you’ll hear—especially home health and home care. They sound similar, and yes, both take place in the comfort of your loved one’s home. But here’s the thing: they’re actually very different services, and choosing the right one depends on your loved one’s specific needs.
Let’s break it down in plain, everyday language.
Home Health vs. Home Care: What’s the Big Difference?
Home health care is medical.
Home care is non-medical.
That’s the simplest way to look at it.
What is Home Health Care?
Home health care involves skilled medical services that are provided at home by licensed professionals. Think nurses, physical therapists, or speech-language pathologists. It’s typically ordered by a doctor after a hospital stay or to manage a chronic condition at home.
Home health care services may include:
- Wound care
- IV therapy or injections
- Monitoring vital signs and medical equipment
- Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
- Medication management
- Post-surgical recovery assistance
It’s covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance—but only when it’s medically necessary and ordered by a physician.
What is Home Care?
Home care (sometimes called personal care or custodial care) is focused on helping with daily living activities. It doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription and isn’t considered medical care. It’s all about improving comfort, independence, and quality of life.
Home care services may include:
- Bathing, dressing, grooming
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Companionship
- Transportation to appointments
- Grocery shopping
This kind of care is usually paid out-of-pocket or through long-term care insurance. Medicaid might help in some states, but Medicare does not cover it.
When to Choose Home Health Care
Go with home health if your loved one:
- Has been discharged from the hospital and needs medical follow-up
- Has a chronic illness like diabetes, heart failure, or COPD
- Needs physical therapy to regain strength
- Needs help managing medications or monitoring symptoms
It’s clinical, it’s temporary, and it’s goal-oriented—aimed at helping the patient recover or maintain their health.
When to Choose Home Care
Choose home care if your loved one:
- Needs help with basic activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Lives alone and feels isolated
- Has memory issues but doesn’t need skilled nursing
- Could use help around the house or getting to errands
It’s often long-term, flexible, and focused on day-to-day support and companionship.
Can You Have Both at the Same Time?
Yes! Many families find that a combination of home health and home care services works best. For example, your loved one may receive weekly visits from a nurse or physical therapist (home health), while also getting help with bathing, meals, and transportation from a home care aide.
This dual approach helps cover both medical needs and quality-of-life needs. It’s especially common for individuals recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, or aging in place with dignity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between home health and home care doesn’t have to be confusing. Think of it this way:
- Home health = medical care at home, prescribed by a doctor.
- Home care = everyday help and companionship at home, no prescription required.
Both services can play a vital role in helping your loved one stay safe, independent, and well-cared-for in the place they feel most comfortable—home.
Related Insights:
5 Signs That Your Loved One May Need Home Health Care
Common Myths and Misconceptions About Home Health Services
Need help figuring out what’s best for your family?
We’re here to walk you through your options and create a care plan that meets your loved one’s needs.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
