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The Differences Between In-Home Care and Nursing Care

a caregiver smiles while talking to her elderly client

In-home care and nursing care both provide essential services to those needing medical or social attention, but there are differences between the two.

In-home care typically involves a caregiver visiting the patient’s home to assist with activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping chores. Nursing care is typically more comprehensive and includes caring for the patient’s physical needs, administering medications, providing wound care, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or hospital. 

While both types of care can provide much-needed support to individuals, it is vital to understand their differences to decide which type of care is right for you or your loved one.

In-Home Care Vs. Nursing Care

In-home care and nursing care both help people that require some type of medical or social attention. However, there are key differences between the two types of care. In-home care and nursing care offer different levels of assistance.

In-home care generally focuses on providing support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, cleaning dishes, and light housekeeping tasks.

Nursing care is typically more comprehensive and includes caring for the patient’s physical needs, administering medications, providing wound care, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support at the patient’s home.

In-home care is generally more affordable than nursing care and may be more suitable for individuals who can still perform some of their own daily activities. Nursing care is typically best suited for those that require a higher level of medical attention and support.

Pros and Cons of In-Home Care

Pros of In-Home Care

In-home care offers a range of benefits for those requiring assistance. It can be a more cost-efficient option than nursing care and allows the patient to remain in their own home, surrounded by familiar places and people. This will enable them to maintain some independence and control over their daily activities. It also provides an opportunity for family members to be involved in the care process.

Cons of In-Home Care

In-home care may not be suitable for those who require a higher level of medical attention and support. It also requires that there are people available to provide the necessary assistance and may not always be available when needed. Additionally, in-home care can place an additional burden on family members who are providing assistance.

Pros and Cons of Nursing Care

Pros of Nursing Care

Nursing care is generally more comprehensive than in-home care, providing a higher level of medical attention and support. It can be tailored to meet patients’ individual needs and provides them with access to skilled medical professionals who can monitor their condition and provide treatment when necessary. Nursing care also allows individuals to remain in an environment where they can receive the appropriate level of medical care and attention.

Cons of Nursing Care

Nursing care generally gives patients a feeling of less independence. This can be difficult for some individuals who like to have control over their day-to-day activities. Additionally, nursing care is generally more expensive than in-home care and may only sometimes be covered by insurance (depending on your provider and plan).

Is In-Home Care or Nursing Care For Your Loved One?

When deciding what kind of care is best for your loved one, it is vital to determine their individual needs. If they are in need of assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping tasks, then in-home care may be the most suitable option. On the other hand, nursing care may be the better choice if they require a higher level of medical attention and support. Ultimately, the decision depends on their individual needs.

If you’re in the Pacific Northwest and are still wondering which option is best for your loved one, contact our team at Fedelta Home Care for support.

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