What is home care?

Home care is a cost-effective alternative to extended hospital stay or institutional care. Being at home helps clients feel better about themselves and gives them a sense of security and well-being, without imposing a burden on family and friends. In addition, homecare can cost a fraction as much as hospitalization or a long-term care facility.The scope of home care is broad. Clients cross the spectrum of care; from newborn infants to the elderly and infirm. Services include non-medical personal care, such as assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, mobility, and light housekeeping, skilled nursing care, and specialized therapeutic care.

Staying at home means being near family and friends - people who can offer loving care and support. A trained home care provider can teach them the skills needed to help with certain types of care.

Who needs home care?

If you were recently hospitalized for surgery or illness.

1. If you are unable to meet your own needs due to health, age or social problems.
2. If you are stressed with taking care of a family member who can no longer care for themselves.
3. If you are missing work or ignoring your immediate family to care for a loved one.
4. If you are homebound and lonely, frightened, or depressed.
5. If you need assistance getting groceries, going to appointments, or around the house.
6. If you have an infant or sick child and need help with care or housework.

Home health aide (HAA)

May perform the duties of a Companion or a Personal Care Aide, plus a Home Health Aide may provide the following services

1. May take vital signs and test urine.
2. Help with complex dietary restrictions.
3. Assist with prescribed exercise routines.
4. May assist with oxygen equipment.
5. Special skin care and simple dressing changes.
6. Assist with colostomy care.

Companion

Performs nutritional & environmental support services including household activities to maintain an environment which is safe, clean, and promotes the physical and emotional well-being of the client.

1. Performs light housekeeping activities to maintain a safe and clean environment
2. Prepare meals
3. Make & change beds
4. Washing dishes
5. Shopping for client if no family members are available
6. Laundry

Personal Care Aide

The duties of a Companion & additional duties as listed below.

1. Assist with bathing at sink, tub, shower or complete bed bath
2. Assist with ambulation
3. Assist with feeding
4. Transfer client with or without equipment
5. Assist with toileting, bedpan, commode
6. Lifting & turning of clients in bed or chair
7. May remind client to take medications