What are homecare services?

Care provided in the home, or homecare, can refer to many different scenarios. It can be as general as help with limited daily activities like dressing, bathing, and household chores, to professional medical attention for those with a long illness or physical disability. Whether it is extra help around the house and assistance with daily tasks, or professional medical attention, all of these services can be provided by homecare.

Homecare services are generally divided into two distinct groups: non-medical homecare, which are support services for a patient not needing professional medical treatment; and medical homecare, also sometimes referred to as "skilled care." Non-medical healthcare services might include: help with personal daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, ambulating, lifting and eating; assistance with chores around the house like cooking, laundry, and light cleaning; and "companionship" which includes help with shopping, daily errands and basic transportation.¹ Non-medical homecare services are becoming a more popular solution for seniors, as it gives them the assistance and companionship they need without having to move to an assisted living facility or nursing home; indeed, it allows them to remain in their home and retain their independence.

Medical or "skilled services" homecare refers to services like doctor's diagnoses, recovery treatment, professional nursing, and therapy. If medical services are needed, there are many types of healthcare professionals available for homecare whether it be full time, weekly sessions, or various individual checkups or appointments. The most common professionals in homecare include physicians, nurses, and various therapists. There are also other professional providers which supply medical equipment and medication for homecare like pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment suppliers, and infusion therapy companies.

Homecare services, whether for non-medical or medical requirements, are an effective way to cater to the specific needs of patients while still allowing them to maintain their independence and remain in their homes.