Homecare services are vital for many individuals who need assistance with daily living activities due to aging, illness, or disability. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion or hesitation when considering homecare. Here are some common ones:

In-home Care is the same as Home Health Care

One of the most widely spread misconceptions about non-medical, in-home care is that it is the same as home health care. While there is some overlap between the two, such as care for an individual at home, the main distinction is that home health care delivers medical services at a patient's home by licensed professionals, such as nurses, therapists, or specialists prescribed by a doctor. Nonmedical, in-home care focuses on assistance with daily activities within someone’s home.

Homecare is the Same as Hospice Care

Many people believe that home care is only for individuals who are terminally ill or near the end of their lives. The reality is that anyone who needs assistance with activities of daily living or companionship can benefit from in-home care regardless of their age or stage of life. 

Homecare is Only for the Elderly

Many families turn to in-home care when their aging family member wants to age in the comfort and safety of their own home with the additional support of a professional caregiver. However, people of all ages can need home care. This includes individuals recovering from surgery who need help, those with chronic illnesses, those in need of medication reminders, or adults living with disabilities. 

Homecare Is Too Expensive

Many people assume that homecare services are prohibitively expensive. However, homecare costs vary depending on the care level needed. In many cases, it's more affordable than a nursing home or assisted living facility, especially for individuals who only require part-time or intermittent assistance. Additionally, certain insurance policies may help cover costs.

Homecare is Just Help with Housework

While non-medical, in-home caregivers can assist with household duties, they also provide companionship, transportation, personal care, meal preparation, and respite care. Care plans can be customized to meet the unique needs of the individual needing care.

Family Members Can Handle Everything

53 million adults across the United States are caregivers for an aging loved one. However, up to 60% of these caregivers experience burnout that impacts their own mental and physical health. Professional in-home caregivers can provide essential support and give family members the time and relief they need. Homecare professionals bring expertise in providing personal care, which may not be within a family member’s skill set.

Homecare is Less Safe Than Facility Care

Some people assume that home care is less safe than institutional care, like nursing homes.

In reality, home care can be just as safe - if not safer - when appropriate precautions and trained professionals are in place. In fact, home care allows for more personalized attention and one-on-one care, which can reduce the risk of accidents and infections that may occur in group settings.

Homecare Means Giving Up Independence

Seeing the needs of an aging family member change over time can be difficult for the entire family. In-home care allows aging adults to retain as much independence as possible while still maintaining their safety. Homecare is designed to support individuals, not control them - that’s why care plans can be custom-tailored to their unique preferences and needs. Caregivers assist with specific tasks, allowing individuals to remain in their homes and maintain a greater sense of autonomy. The goal is often to empower individuals to live as independently as possible, with professional help when needed.

All Homecare Agencies Are the Same

Homecare agencies can vary in terms of the level of care they provide, their staff qualifications, and the type of services they offer. It's important to research and choose an agency that meets the specific needs of the person receiving care and that has a good reputation for professionalism and reliability.

At HomeSpark, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of trust and compassion. We can help you assess your loved one’s needs and create a personalized care plan to give you the peace of mind you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our non-medical, in-home care services.