Understanding Home Care Services: Definition, Types & Benefits

Home care services are performed by a variety of people. Nurses, nursing assistants, personal attendants, housekeepers and social workers all perform services which fall under the umbrella of home care services. Different agencies or groups define these services differently.

Function

• Home health care services provide assistance that allows people to remain in their home.

Benefits

• Home health care services lower the cost of health care and increases the individual's quality of life.

Types

• Home health care services eligible for Social Security Administration deductions include those performed in the home where the need for such services are caused by the disability and the service must enable a person with a disability to work.

  Home health care services funded by insurance are those necessary for a person to live independently in their choice of home. These can include daily living tasks, help taking medications and housekeeping duties.

Significance

• To receive home health care services funded by a source other than yourself, you must have a medical determination of need.

Considerations

• Each agency defines home health services in their own way. You will need to check with the specific agency before selecting a home health care service.