The Difference Between Home Care and Home Health: What Families Should Know

When a loved one needs help at home, many families begin searching for options — only to be met with confusing terms like home care and home health. Though they sound similar, these services are very different, and understanding the distinction can help you make the best choice for your family’s needs.

At Divine Loving Care, we’re proud to offer compassionate, personalized in-home care services — and we’re here to clear up the confusion.

At Divine Loving Care, we’re proud to offer compassionate, personalized in-home care services — and we’re here to clear up the confusion.

What Is Home Care?

Home care focuses on non-medical support that helps seniors live safely and comfortably in their own homes. Services often include:

Personal hygiene assistance

Meal preparation

Light housekeeping

Transportation

Companionship

These services are delivered by compassionate caregivers and licensed home health aides, ensuring your loved one receives daily support while maintaining independence and dignity.

Home care is ideal for those who need help with activities of daily living but don’t require medical treatment at home.

What Is Home Health?

Home health is medical care provided at home under the direction of a doctor. Services are typically short-term and include:

Wound care

Physical or occupational therapy

Injections or IV medications

Health monitoring

Home health care is delivered by licensed nurses, therapists, or other clinical professionals and is often covered by Medicare or insurance with a doctor’s referral.

Which One Does My Loved One Need?

If your loved one needs help with everyday activities, but not medical treatment, home care may be the best fit. If they are recovering from surgery or managing a medical condition and need clinical care, home health may be more appropriate.

Sometimes, both services are needed — and they can work hand-in-hand to ensure a full spectrum of support.

At Divine Loving Care, we provide high-quality, non-medical elder care support across North Carolina.

We believe every senior deserves to age in place with safety, comfort, and dignity. If you’re unsure about what kind of care is right for your family, we’re here to guide you.

Contact us today to learn more about our senior care in North Carolina and how we can help your loved one thrive at home.