As people get older, many want to stay in their own homes. Luckily, there are different kinds of help to make this possible. Two common types are home care and home health care. These may sound alike, but they are not the same. Knowing the difference can help you choose the right kind of care for you or your loved one.
What Is Home Care?
Home care is help you get at home with everyday things. It is not medical care. A home care helper - also known as a personal caregiver - can come to your home to help you:
- Get dressed
- Take a bath
- Prepare meals
- Lightly clean the house
- Do laundry
- Shop for groceries
Home care helpers are sometimes called caregivers or personal attendants. They do not do things like give shots or physical therapy. Instead, they make it easier for you to live at home and stay independent.
Example: If you need help getting out of bed, eating, or keeping your home tidy, a home care helper can assist.
What Is Home Health Care?
Home health care is medical care you get at home. Nurses or therapists may visit your home to:
- Monitor your healing progress, or vital signs
- Set up your medication
- Change bandages
- Give physical, speech, or occupational therapy
You usually need a doctor’s order to get home health care. Home health providers are trained medical workers - like nurses, physical therapists, speech therapists, or occupational therapists. They collaborate with your doctor to make a care plan.
Example: If you just came home from the hospital and need help healing a wound or learning to walk again, home health care is the right choice.
Key Differences: Home Care vs. Home Health
| | Home Care | Home Health Care | | ------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------- | | Type of Help | Everyday tasks | Medical care | | Who Helps | Caregivers or aides | Nurses or therapists | | Need Doctor’s Order? | No | Yes | | Who Pays For It | You (private pay), the VA, or long-term care insurance, sometimes Medicaid Waiver | Medicare, Medicaid, insurance (if eligible) |
How to Decide Which Is Best for You
Here are some questions to help you decide:
- Do you need help with daily living, but not medical care? 
Home care may be best.
- Do you need help with medicine, wounds, or therapy at home? 
Home health care is likely needed.
- Did your doctor say you need skilled care at home? 
Ask about home health care.
- Are you coming home from the hospital or have a new illness or injury? 
Home health care can help you heal.
Tips:
- Talk to your doctor or healthcare team about what kind of help is right for you.
- You can get both home care and home health care if you need help with both daily living and medical care.
- Ask about costs and what your insurance or Medicare will cover before getting started.
Why Choosing the Right Help Matters
Getting the right help at home can keep you healthy, safe, and happy. Home care can make your daily life easier. Home health care can help you heal and improve mobility after being sick or in the hospital.
Always check with your doctor, nurse, or a trusted advisor about which service fits your needs best, and ask questions until you feel sure about your choice.
Sources
- ACL.gov - Home Health Care PDF
- Medicare.gov: What’s Home Health Care?
- NIA: Services for Older Adults Living at Home
This blog was inspired by the ACL.gov Home Health Care Guide and other official sources.