As we age, finding the right support to live safely, comfortably, and retain social ties becomes increasingly important.
If you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, you are probably asking a few key questions:
- What is the difference between home care and home health care?
- Does Medicare cover home care and home health care?
- What does my loved one qualify for given their needs?
Both types of care are options that provide in-home support for seniors—but they serve different purposes and are paid for in different ways.
First, Know the Difference: Medicare vs. Medicaid
Before diving into home care options, it’s important to understand how the two most common government programs—Medicare and Medicaid—play a role in what services are covered:
- Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, and for younger individuals with qualifying disabilities. It typically covers medical or rehabilitation-based services.
- Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps cover health care costs for individuals with limited income and assets. In Florida, Medicaid may cover certain long-term care services for eligible seniors, including some in-home support.
Two Types of In-Home Care: What’s Covered and What’s Not?
Senior home care comes in two primary forms. The first is simply called home care or personal care, the other is home health care.
1. Home Care Agency – Not Covered By Medicare
Non-medical home care is designed to support seniors with daily living activities rather than medical treatment. These services are especially helpful for older adults who could use extra support to stay safe, including regular check-ins and companionship.
Most agencies require a minimum hours of care per week, up to 24/7 care. Common services include:
- Personal hygiene assistance with bathing, dressing, using the restroom, etc.
- Light housekeeping
- Meal preparation including grocery shopping
- Social interaction which is essential for emotional well-being and mental health
- Transportation and errand services
How Do I Pay for Home Care?
Non-medical home care is not covered by Medicare. Most seniors and their families pay for home care through personal savings. Long-term care insurance does cover home care. In addition, Veterans benefits and Medicaid will cover some level of home care services for eligible seniors.
2. Home Health Care – Covered By Medicare
Home health care is prescribed by a physician, most often after a hospitalization, surgery, or a serious illness that requires follow-up by nursing or therapy professionals. Home health care:
- Requires a doctor’s order
- Includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, wound treatment, IV therapy and injections, and other medically necessary services
- Is prescribed for a limited amount of time and is goal-oriented
Note: Medicare also typically covers short-term stays in skilled nursing or rehabilitation facilities after events like surgery or a stroke.
Westminster Home Care
Whether you need personal assistance at home or skilled services under a doctor’s care, Westminster Home Care (WHC) is here to help. We are proud to offer home care services to the thousands of seniors who live at Westminster Communities of Florida Life Plan campuses, as well as Florida seniors living in:
- Leon County
- Manatee County
- Orange County
- Pinellas County
- St. Johns County
Flexible Services, When You Need Them
Westminster Home Care offers customizable support from as little as two hours per day to around-the-clock care. Our goal is to help you maintain independence, dignity, and comfort in your own home.
Our Home Care Services Include:
- Medication management
- Personal care and hygiene assistance
- Meal planning and preparation
- Transportation to appointments, church, and social outings
- Companion care and conversation
- Dog walking and light household help
- Support with rehabilitation needs
Choosing the Right Care for You or a Loved One
When deciding between home care and home health care, consider:
- Is there a medical condition involved that requires skilled professionals?
- Has a doctor prescribed in-home services?
- What coverage options are available? (Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care or private insurance)
For many seniors, a combination of short-term home health care and ongoing home care services offers the best of both worlds.