Differences Between Home Health, Home Care and More

Let Comfort Keepers of Alpharetta, GA help you understand home health vs. home care – plus other industry terms

When first navigating this special world of senior care, you probably knew exactly what your loved one needed. But now that you’re talking to agencies about the types of care, various available specialists, and insurance coverage, a larger question may loom: what exactly is this called? Home health and home care are different kinds of care, yet both offered within the home. We often hear from potential clients who use the terms interchangeably and didn’t realize there was a difference. We also notice customer confusion with hospice and palliative care. Knowing the differences between these terms will help you better recognize your needs. Our team in Alpharetta breaks it all down in this easy-to-understand guide, or you can call us at team a call at (770) 370-8779.

What is home care?

Comfort Keepers of Alpharetta is, first and foremost, a home care agency that specializes in senior care. The phrase “senior home care” is also commonly used. In our business model, home care is offered by caregivers, sometimes called home care aides, who offer assistance with daily living and companionship. Our caregivers work hard to enrich the lives of our clients and their families in Alpharetta, GA and the surrounding area. Services include help with meal planning, transportation, cleaning, and other chores around the home. Our team is also great at reducing isolation and providing a much-needed companion for your loved one. 

What is home health care?

Home health care is specific medical care offered by a registered nurse, therapist, or skilled medical professional. Comfort Keepers of Alpharetta does not offer these services, so you need to contract from an agency that provides home health care. Such care can be prescribed by a doctor in conjunction with health care and might follow some hospitalization. If your parent needs home health care services, it could be monitoring a health condition, nursing services, physical therapy, wound care, or administering medicine, including injections.

What is palliative care?

Palliative care helps to manage a condition from which you hope to recover, such as with chemo/cancer treatment. Here the goal is to make you more comfortable during recovery. You can, however, also receive palliative care as part of end of life care, which, too, provides support and comfort to the client. Our respite care services also afford you – as family caregivers – the opportunity for breaks, so you have time to recharge your batteries.

What is hospice?

Hospice does get mistaken for palliative care, but the truth is they’re not the same. Hospice is purposely meant for the very end of life, often for people who may have less than six months to live – whereas palliative care is intended for patients at any point during a life-threatening or chronic illness. Hospice workers aim to ease symptoms and lessen side effects without trying to treat or cure the problem.

We’re here to help in Alpharetta, GA

Let our team of Comfort Keepers help you. Call us anytime in Alpharetta to schedule a free consultation. A real, live person can be reached at (770) 370-8779.