Home Health vs. Personal Care: What’s the Difference—and Which One Do You Need?

Home Health vs. Personal Care

As more families choose in-home services for aging loved ones, one common question arises: What’s the difference between home health care and personal care? Both options support seniors at home, but the type of care provided—and who delivers it—varies in important ways.

Whether you're navigating care for a parent, spouse, or client, understanding these differences can help you choose the right path for safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

🧑‍⚕️ What Is Home Health Care?

Home health care is clinical, medical care provided at home under a doctor’s orders. It’s typically prescribed after a hospital stay, surgery, or to manage a chronic illness.

🩺 Home Health Services May Include:

• Skilled nursing care (wound care, injections, vitals monitoring)

• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

• Medication management and IV therapy

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

• Post-operative recovery

  
  

✅ Who provides it?Licensed professionals like registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified therapists deliver this care.

✅ Who pays for it?Often covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance if deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a physician.

👵 What Is Personal Care?

Personal care (also called non-medical home care or custodial care) helps with daily living activities. It doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription and is focused more on maintaining independence, hygiene, and well-being.

💗 Personal Care Services May Include:

• Help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting

• Meal preparation and feeding assistance

• Light housekeeping and laundry

• Transportation to appointments

• Companionship and emotional support

  
  

✅ Who provides it?Home care aides, personal care attendants (PCAs), or certified nursing assistants (CNAs)—typically trained, but not medically licensed.

✅ Who pays for it?Usually private pay, long-term care insurance, or Medicaid (in some states). Medicare does not cover personal care unless it’s part of a broader home health plan.

🤝 Can Someone Receive Both Types of Care?

Yes! Many seniors benefit from a combination of home health and personal care. For example, a nurse may visit twice a week for wound care, while a home care aide assists daily with bathing and meal prep.

That’s where coordination becomes key—and where agencies supported by 24/7 triage services like Curacall can thrive. When care teams are well-structured and always connected, families experience fewer gaps and more peace of mind.

🧭 How to Decide Which Is Right for You or Your Loved One

Ask these questions:

• Is there a medical condition requiring skilled attention? → Consider home health care.

• Does the person need help with everyday tasks, hygiene, or companionship? → Personal care may be more appropriate.

• Is safety a concern due to mobility or cognitive decline? → Personal care can prevent accidents and isolation.

• Has a doctor recently recommended home services? → Home health care is likely covered and necessary.

  
  

In some cases, agencies offer both services in one plan—a more seamless experience for clients and caregivers alike.

While the names sound similar, home health care and personal care meet very different needs. One focuses on medical support, the other on daily life. Together, they offer a powerful solution for aging at home with dignity, safety, and connection.

Understanding these differences can help you make informed, compassionate choices—and ensure your loved one gets the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

#curacall