Medical & Non-Medical In Home Care
What's the Difference?
Any professional support services in the home where the patient or client is living classify as in home care. This is in contrast to care that's provided elsewhere, either in clinics or nursing homes. The purpose of home care is to assist individuals with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, taking medication, and other personal care needs. However, it's important to keep in mind there are different types of home care, and in this article, we'll explore the differences between non-medical and medical homecare.
What Is Non-Medical Home Care?
Non-medical home care is a simpler type of home care where the individual or patient doesn't require medical services or skilled nursing services. This type of care is more focused on providing support that meets other personal care needs for seniors. The biggest benefit of non-medical home care is that it can be customized to provide different levels of care, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual. For instance, some seniors might require non-medical home care to ensure they have the companionship and support they need to maintain a healthy social life.
Others require this type of care because they need assistance with various activities of daily living, such as sitting, standing, moving around, meal preparation, and cleaning. Additionally, non-medical home care services can help people in need with bathing and using the bathroom, light housekeeping, and driving services to different locations, whether to attend appointments or run errands. These services also extend to dressing and grooming, engaging in stimulating conversation, and playing games together. Non-medical home care is generally more affordable than medical home care and it enables seniors to age in the comfort of their own home as opposed to moving to an unfamiliar environment such as a residential home or assisted living facility.
What Is Medical Home Care?
Medical home care is an innovative approach to health care delivery for seniors that want to age in place. While younger adults can also receive medical in home care, the majority of people that require this type of care are senior citizens. For instance, according to the Administration for Community Living, the fastest growing age demographic in the U.S. is that which is 65 years or older. Therefore, there's likely to be an increased demand for in home care within this age group. Some of the seniors in this age group will require medical home healthcare or home nursing for various purposes.
Medical homecare services are usually provided by certified nursing professionals, and medical care often includes things like administering prescribed medications, changing wound dressings, helping with chronic disease management, and use of other medical devices. Patients that need home care include those who are recovering from surgery, individuals that need help managing a long-term illness, and those that struggle with leaving their homes but need ongoing medical care. In some cases, patients might start off only needing non-medical care, but if the condition worsens, then they may need medical care instead.
Which Type of In Home Care Is Right for You or Your Loved One?
Are you wondering which option is right for you or your loved one between non-medical and medical home care? Well, it all depends on what the individual's primary doctor has prescribed. If you're consulting with an in-home care agency, they can also help you assess your loved one's current situation to determine which option is best. In any case, you can rely on a personalized care plan that ensures your loved ones can enjoy a better quality of life all in the comfort and safety of familiar surroundings. Whether your loved one requires medical or non-medical care, they get to stay home, which is a popular preference for most adults. Non-medical and medical home care is not only convenient, but they help you fulfill your loved one's wishes of aging in place while still getting the adequate and professional support they need to keep thriving.
There's a wide range of home health care services that individuals and patients can receive. Knowing the difference between major options like non-medical and medical homecare ensures that you can make an informed decision, depending on the situation you're dealing with. Once you understand the differences, the next crucial step is finding a reliable and reputable in-home care agency that can fully meet your needs. In that regard, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us today to discuss the care plan and services you need for you or your loved one at home.
Not Sure What In Home Care Services You May Need?
To learn more about our comprehensive senior care options, contact Comfort Keepers in the Coachella Valley today at (760) 340-2166 - we will be happy to answer your questions. If you prefer, you can take our self-directed home care survey by clicking the button below.
About Comfort Keepers Home Care
Comfort Keepers is a leader in providing in-home care consisting of such services as companionship, transportation, housekeeping, meal preparation, bathing, mobility assistance and a host of additional items all meant to keep seniors living independently worry free in the comfort of their homes. Comfort Keepers serves the Coachella Valley area of California including Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Twenty-Nine Palms, Rancho Mirage, Indio, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indian Wells. Let us help you stay independent.
