November is National Care at Home Month, a time to recognize the essential role of organizations like Hospice of the Northwest, and the many people who provide compassionate care and support wherever you call home.
It’s also a good time to learn about the various types of in-home care available to people recovering from or living with a serious illness or injury. People often use terms like home care and home health interchangeably, making it difficult to determine which type of care is needed. Below are the three most common types of in-home care.
Home Care
Home care offers non-medical assistance to people who need help with activities of daily living. Trained caregivers provide personal care such as bathing and dressing, companion care, and practical assistance with things like grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and transportation. Home care is often combined with home health care or hospice care to help patients with daily needs. It is usually paid for privately, but may be covered by long-term care insurance, Medicaid, or VA benefits if you qualify. By helping people with day-to-day needs, home care allows you to stay in your home and live independently for as long as possible.
Home Health Care
Home health care provides skilled medical support for people recovering from a serious illness or injury. Services may include nursing care, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support with personal care needs. Typically, home health care is intended for short-term use and focuses on specific recovery goals. Medicare Part B, Medicaid, VA benefits, and private insurance provide coverage for home health care. Home health is a viable alternative to a skilled nursing facility for patients who only need intermittent medical care, allowing them to recover in the comfort of their own home.
Hospice Care
Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life for people facing a life-limiting illness. A person becomes eligible for hospice when two doctors agree the prognosis is six months or less if the disease takes its natural course. Hospice takes a holistic approach to care, addressing a patient’s medical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs—wherever they call home. It is covered by Medicare Part A, Medicaid, VA benefits, and private insurance. With the support of a dedicated hospice care team, patients and their loved ones can focus on what matters most: living life to the fullest in compassion and dignity.
As your needs change, your level of care will too. Each type of in-home care provides crucial support when you need it most.
If you or someone you love is facing a life-limiting illness, we are here to help. If you have questions or would like more information, please call us at (360) 814-5550.