Home care services and home health may sound very similar, but there are important distinctions between the two. Both are provided in the home, but one is focused on medical care and the other is for just about everything else. Often, seniors need both types of care to keep them as healthy, safe and comfortable as possible. Check out these lists to see the differences in care:

Home Care Services

Home Health

Meal preparation

Light housekeeping

Grocery shopping

Dressing and bathing

Medication reminders

Companionship

Cognitive and physical activities

Errands and transportation

Skilled nursing

Wound care

Medical tests

Physical therapy

Occupational therapy

Medication monitoring

Pain management

IV therapy/injections

When does your loved one need home care services or home health?

There are many situations in which your loved one could benefit from care in the home. For example, when daily tasks like cooking, cleaning or driving become too difficult, a home care services professional can provide the help they need to stay in their home. Or, when memory starts to slip, a caregiver can be on hand to make sure your loved one is safe and cared for.

If your loved one has a medical condition like diabetes or an injury that effects their mobility, they may need home health services, like skilled nursing or physical therapy. These services are provided under the direction of a doctor and often are prescribed after an illness or injury, or following a hospitalization.

Who provides care in the home?

Home care services professionals specialize and are trained and certified in many areas, such as dementia, fall prevention and nutrition for the elderly—while home health providers are licensed medical professionals. In either case, bringing these services into the home can allow your loved one to remain in their own home with as much independence as possible. But, before hiring a home care or home health provider, make sure they have the credentials you’re looking for.

Home Care Angels provides assistance with daily activities, such as dressing, eating and personal care, from home service aides. Please call 847.824.5221 to speak with one of our Client Care Coordinators if you would like more information on in-home care.