The Difference Between Home Care and Home Health Care: What Louisiana Families Need to Know
When a loved one begins to need extra support at home, one of the first questions families ask is:
“Do we need home care or home health care?”
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same.
Understanding the difference can help you make informed decisions, access the right services, and ensure your loved one receives the care that best fits their needs.
Whether you’re caring for an aging parent, an adult with disabilities, or a loved one recovering from an illness or injury, knowing how these services differ is an important first step.
At AAA Care, we believe that informed families make confident decisions. This guide explains the differences between home care and home health care, who each service is designed for, and how to determine which option is right for your family.
What Is Home Care?
Home care—sometimes called non-medical in-home care—provides assistance with daily living activities that help individuals remain safe, comfortable, and independent in their own homes.
Unlike home health care, home care focuses on personal support rather than medical treatment.
Home care services may include:
- Assistance with bathing and personal hygiene
- Dressing and grooming
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Medication reminders
- Mobility assistance
- Transportation to appointments
- Companionship
- Respite care for family caregivers
The goal of home care is simple:
Help individuals maintain their independence while receiving the support they need to live safely at home.
What Is Home Health Care?
Home health care provides medical services that are ordered by a physician and delivered by licensed healthcare professionals.
These services are typically short-term and are often provided after:
- Surgery
- Hospitalization
- Illness
- Injury
- A medical diagnosis requiring skilled care
Home health care may include:
- Skilled nursing care
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Wound care
- IV therapy
- Medical monitoring
- Health assessments
Because these services are medical in nature, they are provided by licensed professionals such as registered nurses and therapists.
Home Care vs. Home Health Care: What’s the Difference?
Although both services are delivered in the home, their purpose is very different.
| Home Care | Home Health Care |
|---|---|
| Non-medical support | Medical care |
| Helps with daily activities | Treats medical conditions |
| Personal care assistance | Skilled nursing services |
| Long-term or ongoing | Often short-term |
| Promotes independence | Supports recovery and medical treatment |
| May be available through Medicaid waiver programs | Often covered through Medicare or physician-ordered insurance benefits |
In many situations, families benefit from both services at the same time.
For example, someone recovering from surgery may receive home health care from a nurse while also receiving home care assistance with bathing, meals, and household tasks.
Who Can Benefit From Home Care?
Home care is ideal for individuals who need extra assistance with everyday activities but do not require ongoing medical treatment.
This may include:
- Older adults aging in place
- Adults with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- People living with chronic health conditions
- Individuals recovering from illness
- Family caregivers needing respite support
Home care allows individuals to remain in familiar surroundings while preserving their dignity and independence.
Who Can Benefit From Home Health Care?
Home health care is appropriate for individuals who require skilled medical treatment at home.
Examples include:
- Recovery after surgery
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Diabetes management
- Wound care
- Physical therapy after injury
- Medication administration requiring nursing oversight
These services focus on improving medical outcomes and helping individuals recover safely.
Can Someone Receive Both Home Care and Home Health Care?
Yes.
Many families are surprised to learn that home care and home health care often work together.
For example:
A person recovering from hip replacement surgery may receive:
- A visiting nurse for wound care
- Physical therapy several times each week
- A home care professional to assist with bathing, dressing, meals, and mobility
Together, these services provide comprehensive support while allowing the individual to remain at home.
Does Medicaid Cover Home Care in Louisiana?
Many Louisiana residents may qualify for home care services through Medicaid programs and waiver services, depending on their eligibility.
Programs may help cover support such as:
- Personal care assistance
- Community-based services
- In-home support
- Daily living assistance
Eligibility requirements vary, and navigating available programs can feel overwhelming.
Understanding your options early can help families access the support they need sooner.
Does Medicare Cover Home Health Care?
In many cases, Medicare may cover home health care when:
- A physician orders the services
- Skilled medical care is required
- Eligibility requirements are met
Coverage typically applies to medically necessary services such as skilled nursing and therapy—not long-term personal care assistance.
Families should speak with their healthcare provider and insurance representative to understand available benefits.
How Do You Know Which Service Your Loved One Needs?
The right choice depends on your loved one’s unique situation.
Consider these questions:
Do they need help with everyday activities?
If they need assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, or mobility, home care may be the best option.
Are they recovering from surgery or illness?
If skilled nursing or therapy is needed, home health care may be appropriate.
Do they need both medical treatment and personal support?
Many individuals benefit from combining both services.
The most effective care plans are personalized—not one-size-fits-all.
Why Families Choose Home Care
Families often choose home care because it allows loved ones to remain where they are most comfortable: at home.
Benefits include:
- Greater independence
- Personalized support
- Familiar surroundings
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced caregiver stress
- Flexible care plans
- Peace of mind for families
Home care isn’t about taking away independence.
It’s about providing the right support to help individuals continue living life on their own terms.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Home Care Provider
Finding the right provider is one of the most important decisions families can make.
Consider asking:
- How are care plans personalized?
- What services are available?
- How are caregivers selected and trained?
- How is communication handled with families?
- Can care needs change over time?
- What experience does the agency have serving individuals with disabilities?
A trusted provider should take the time to understand your family’s goals—not simply offer services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is home care the same as home health care?
No. Home care provides non-medical assistance with daily living activities, while home health care provides physician-ordered medical services.
Can I receive both services at the same time?
Yes. Many individuals receive home care and home health care simultaneously to address both personal and medical needs.
Does home care include medical treatment?
No. Home care focuses on daily living assistance and does not replace skilled medical services.
Who qualifies for home care in Louisiana?
Eligibility depends on an individual’s needs and available programs. Some services may be available through Medicaid waiver programs or private pay options.
Why is staying at home important?
Remaining at home allows many individuals to maintain familiar routines, preserve independence, and stay connected to their families and communities.
Final Thoughts: The Right Care Makes All the Difference
Choosing between home care and home health care doesn’t have to be confusing.
The key is understanding your loved one’s unique needs.
If medical treatment is required, home health care may be the right solution.
If assistance with daily living activities can improve safety, independence, and quality of life, home care may provide exactly the support your family needs.
And in many situations, both services work together to create a comprehensive plan of care.
Every family’s journey is different.
The right support begins with understanding your options.
How AAA Care Supports Louisiana Families
At AAA Care, we provide compassionate, person-centered in-home support designed to help individuals live safely, independently, and with dignity.
Our team works closely with individuals and families to create personalized care plans that reflect each person’s unique needs, goals, and preferences.
Whether you’re exploring in-home support for the first time or looking for guidance on available care options, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact AAA Care today to learn how our community-based and in-home support services can help your family.
📞 (504) 482-1700
Because every individual deserves care that is as unique as they are.
