The terms 'home care' and 'home health care' are often used interchangeably, but they describe different kinds of support. Understanding the difference helps families find the right services and ask the right questions.
Home care — sometimes called non-medical home care or personal assistance — helps with the everyday activities of living. A caregiver can assist with bathing, dressing, meals, companionship, light housekeeping, transportation, errands and medication reminders. It is supportive and consistent care delivered in the home, but it is not clinical or medical care.
Home health care is medical care delivered in the home by licensed healthcare professionals. It is prescribed by a physician and may include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, wound care or other clinical services. Home health care is typically short-term and focused on recovery or a specific medical need.
The two often work together. A family may arrange home health care for a period of recovery after a hospital stay, alongside ongoing home care that supports daily living once the clinical need has passed. They serve different purposes, and many families use both at different times.
CENNA Home Health Services provides non-medical in-home support — help with daily activities, companionship and personal assistance. For clinical needs, families should consult the appropriate healthcare professionals and confirm which services are appropriate.