What’s the difference between home care and home health care? What services does a companion provide? And most importantly, which services does your loved one need? Each type of care caters to different needs and offers varying levels of support. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision.
Companion Care
Companion care, sometimes known as “sitter services,” provides supervision and light assistance for seniors or individuals who do not require intensive medical care. It’s ideal for those desiring to remain in their home and maintain a level of independence, but who should not be left alone for long periods due to early-stage dementia or limited mobility. Caregivers in this role engage in:
- Conversation and companionship, including hobbies, games, and walks
- Meal preparation and dining company
- Light housekeeping
- Errand services, such as grocery shopping
- Transportation to appointments or social events
- Medication reminders
Personal Care
Personal care professionals provide a more hands-on level of support. This service is more generally called “home care,” and these caregivers have additional training to be able to assist with the physical aspects of daily living. Tasks typically include:
- Bathing and personal hygiene
- Dressing assistance
- Mobility assistance
- Incontinence care
- More detailed medication management
- Monitoring of vital signs under some circumstances
Personal care is ideal for those needing regular assistance with personal care tasks, but not medical intervention. It’s a good fit for individuals with moderate disabilities or more advanced stages of age-related conditions. Home care visits are typically a minimum three-hour shift, as often as needed (up to 24/7 care).
Nursing Care (Home Health Nurses)
Nursing care is provided by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This type of care is necessary when an individual needs medical care at home, whether they’re recovering after a hospital stay or need help managing a chronic condition such as chronic lung or kidney disease. Home health nurses perform wound care, administer medications (including injections), address pain management, operate medical equipment operation, and monitor health status, adjusting care plans accordingly. Home health visits are often intermittent and limited, lasting until recovery goals are met or the health care provider certifies the visits can continue.
What Type of In-Home Care Is Best?
It’s common for care needs to cross over these categories. For example, someone who needs a nurse’s help managing their lung disease at home may also need the housework-type help provided by a home care aide. Be sure to evaluate the individual’s level of independence and medical needs. Also consider their financial situation. Insurance (including Medicare/Medicaid) typically does not pay for in-home care or may pay only under limited circumstances. Consult with their physician or the hospital’s discharge staff for recommendations.
As you research in-home care options, be sure to ask if the provider is paying Social Security, federal and state taxes, workers compensation, and professional liability insurance for its caregivers. Also find out if the caregivers are bonded/insured and if they’ve undergone background checks. Above all else, ensure that dependable, quality care will be provided by people you can trust. Right at Home can help.
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