Education

Types of home care, plainly explained

Home care isn't one thing. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right help — and avoid paying for care you don't need.

Personal care

Hands-on help with daily living — bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, and toileting.

Social support, conversation, and accompaniment to appointments or errands.

Planning and preparing meals, plus light housekeeping and laundry.

Short-term relief for family caregivers so they can rest while their loved one is cared for.

Licensed medical care — nursing, therapy, and clinical services — often prescribed by a doctor.

Confusing the two is common. Home care brings a caregiver to your home; senior living is housing. See the difference.

Use our guided matching wizard to describe your situation and see matching providers.