What are the Differences Between Home Care and Home Health Care

Introduction

Families looking for support for an aging loved one often hear two terms: home care and home health care. While they sound similar, they are not the same. Each provides different types of services, is delivered by different professionals, and serves different needs.

Choosing the right type of care starts with understanding these differences—so you can make informed decisions that match your loved one’s needs, preferences, and health condition.

What Is Home Care?

Home care focuses on providing non-medical assistance to help seniors and individuals with disabilities maintain independence and comfort in their own homes.

Services may include:

• Help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming

• Meal preparation and grocery shopping

• Light housekeeping and laundry

• Transportation to appointments or errands

• Companionship and social engagement

Who provides it?

These services are typically provided by trained caregivers or aides rather than licensed medical professionals. The goal is to support daily living activities and improve overall quality of life. The National Institute on Aging outlines practical services that help older adults remain at home—such as personal care, meal support, and transportation.

When is it appropriate?
Home care is ideal when your loved one needs help with day-to-day living but does not require ongoing skilled medical treatment.

What Is Home Health Care?

Home health care is ordered by a clinician and delivered by licensed professionals. For specifics on eligibility and what’s covered, see Medicare’s home health services overview.

Services may include:

• Skilled nursing care (wound care, injections, IV therapy)

• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

• Post-surgical recovery assistance

• Chronic illness monitoring (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)

• Medication administration and monitoring

Who provides it?
Home health care is delivered by licensed professionals such as registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified therapists.

When is it appropriate?
Home health care is prescribed by a physician—often following hospitalization, injury, surgery, or a change in health status. It focuses on recovery, rehabilitation, and clinical care.

Key Differences Between Home Care and Home Health Care

For a clear, clinical list of common skilled services provided at home—like wound care, IV therapy, and rehab—see Johns Hopkins Medicine’s guide.

Can They Work Together?

Yes—and often, they should. Many seniors benefit from a blended approach where home health professionals address medical needs while home care aides handle daily living tasks and provide companionship.

For example:

• A home health nurse visits twice a week to check vitals and manage medications.

• A home care aide visits daily to help with meals, bathing, and household chores.

This combination can improve overall quality of life while ensuring both medical and personal needs are met.

Choosing the Right Type of Care

When deciding between home care and home health care, consider:

• Current health needs – Is there a medical condition that requires skilled care?

• Daily living needs – Does your loved one need help with basic activities or companionship?

• Doctor’s recommendations – Has a physician prescribed specific at-home medical services?

• Budget and coverage – Which services are covered by insurance, and which require out-of-pocket payment?