Paid helpers can do many things from simple household chores to highly technical procedures. They may spend as little as an hour or two a week in the home or provide 24-hour care. It is important that you clarify what job duties are expected and that an applicant is able to meet your needs.
Home care services can include:
- Personal care services: help with bathing, dressing, walking, and other activities of daily living (ADL)
- Homemaking services: help with shopping, cooking, housekeeping, etc.
- Skilled care services: provided by medical professionals such as nurses and physical therapists. Medicare will cover intermittent skilled services including such things as dressing changes, injections, and physical therapy if the patient has a physician’s order to receive home services. Skilled services can also be retained privately.
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COMMONLY USED TERMS FOR HOME CARE WORKERS
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JOB TITLE
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TASKS
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Home Care Worker/Aide
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A general term that describes home care personnel
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Companion
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Keeps client company
Maintains a safe environment
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Housekeeper/Handyman
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Cleaning
Repairs
Household maintenance
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Personal Care Attendant
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Assistance with activities of daily living, i.e. bathing, dressing, feeding
All personal care needs
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Homemaker
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Assistance with personal care and household management such as meal planning, shopping, and light housekeeping
Medication reminders – not assistance
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Home Health Aide, Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), or Nurse’s Aide
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Personal care
Essential household services
Assistance with self-administered medication
Assistance with exercise and rehabilitation activities
Generally works under supervision of a nurse
Monitors vital signs
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When To Use Home Care
Making the decision to use home care is usually not easy. Most people want to take care of themselves in their homes for as long as they possibly can. There may come a time, however, when help is necessary because family and friends are not always available to assist. A paid home care worker can provide the care, which is needed . Use the following chart to help you decide the level of care.
The following sections may assist you in finding help for your loved ones: