Home care and home health are distinct types of care which are both provided in a home setting, but most people aren’t aware of the differences and use these terms interchangeably. The key difference is that “home care” is non-clinical care and “home health” is clinical care.
Home health care service is clinical medical care provided by an registered nurse, occupational therapist, physical therapist or other skilled medical professionals, and is often prescribed as part of a care plan following a hospitalization.
Home health care services include:
Therapy and skilled nursing services
Administration of medications, including injections
Monitoring of health status
Situations in which home health is prescribed include:
Following an inpatient hospitalization, rehabilitation, or a stay at a skilled nursing facility – to help the senior transition back to independence
When a senior has had a recent medication change, in order to monitor for side effects and assure a new medication is effective
When seniors experience an overall decline in functioning – in order to help them to regain independence through therapy or learning new skills to compensate for their deficit
HOW TO PAY FOR HOME HEALTH
Since it is considered medical home service, home health is covered by medical insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Covered by Medicare when prescribed by a physician
Medicaid for qualified individuals
Private pay (in rare cases when home health is not prescribed, but a senior desires such services)
Home care is provided by caregivers, usually called home care aides, who are trained to understand the nuances of senior care. Home care aides can help older adults with activities of daily living, or just offer some friendly companionship. Unlike home health, home care is classified as personal care or companion care and is considered “unskilled” or “non-clinical.”
You might consider hiring a home care aide for older adults who:
Need assistance with activities of daily living ranging from grooming to meal preparation
Do not drive and require transportation
Live alone, may be at risk for social isolation and need companionship
Medicaid for qualified low-income seniors
Services provided by home care aides may include:
Helping dressing, bathing and grooming
Reminders to take medicine