Understand In-Home Care
Before You Make That Call

Get clear, honest guidance about care options, costs, and what to expect. No pressure, no sales pitches—just the information you need.

What Is In-Home Care?

In-home care means professional support provided where your loved one already lives—their home, your home, or anywhere they feel comfortable. It's an alternative to moving someone into a facility.

Care can range from a few hours of companionship each week to round-the-clock skilled nursing. Most families start with less and adjust as needs change.

The goal is simple: help someone stay safe, comfortable, and as independent as possible in familiar surroundings.

  • Flexible scheduling — A few hours a week or 24/7 care
  • Familiar environment — No move to a facility required
  • One-on-one attention — Dedicated caregiver focus
  • Family involvement — You stay part of the care team
  • Scalable support — Adjust as needs evolve

Types of In-Home Care

Different situations call for different levels of support. Here's what's typically available.

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Companion Care

Social support and light assistance for those who are generally independent but shouldn't be alone for long periods.

Typical tasks: Conversation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, medication reminders, transportation to appointments.

Typical cost: $20–$30/hour

Best for: Early-stage cognitive changes, social isolation, family respite

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Personal Care

Hands-on assistance with daily activities for those who need physical help with basic tasks.

Typical tasks: Bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, mobility assistance, transferring (bed to chair), feeding assistance.

Typical cost: $25–$35/hour

Best for: Physical limitations, moderate dementia, post-surgery recovery

Skilled Nursing

Medical care provided by licensed nurses for complex health conditions.

Typical tasks: Wound care, IV therapy, medication management, catheter care, vital sign monitoring, post-surgical care.

Typical cost: $50–$100+/hour

Best for: Chronic conditions, hospital discharge, medical complexity

Learn more about each type of care →

Who Is In-Home Care For?

In-home care isn't just for the elderly. It supports people in many different situations.

Aging Adults

Seniors who want to remain in their homes but need help with daily tasks, safety supervision, or medication management.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Anyone recovering from surgery who needs temporary assistance during healing—often covered by insurance for a limited time.

Chronic Conditions

People managing conditions like Parkinson's, MS, diabetes, or heart disease who need ongoing monitoring and support.

Dementia & Alzheimer's

Individuals with cognitive decline who need supervision, routine support, and a safe environment.

Disabilities

Adults with physical or developmental disabilities who need assistance to live independently.

Family Caregivers

Families providing care themselves who need respite—a few hours or days of relief from caregiving duties.

When Should Families Consider In-Home Care?

Most families don't start looking until something happens. Here are common signs it might be time.

Safety Concerns

Falls, leaving the stove on, getting lost in familiar places, or difficulty managing medications.

Declining Self-Care

Unwashed clothes, poor hygiene, weight loss, or an unkempt home in someone who was previously tidy.

Isolation & Mood Changes

Withdrawal from activities, depression, anxiety, or confusion that's getting worse.

Caregiver Burnout

Family members feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or neglecting their own health and responsibilities.

Medical Events

Hospital stay, new diagnosis, or doctor's recommendation for additional support at home.

Can't Be Left Alone

Needing constant supervision due to wandering, poor judgment, or medical fragility.

Read more about when to start care →

Not Sure What You Need?

Our guided assessment asks a few simple questions and helps you understand what type of care might fit your situation—with no pressure and no sales calls.

Learn Before You Decide

Take your time. Understanding your options helps you make better decisions.

📚 Types of Care Explained

Companion, personal, skilled nursing—what each means and when it's appropriate.

📅 When to Start Care

Signs it might be time, and why starting earlier is often better.

💰 Costs & Payment Options

What in-home care costs, what insurance covers, and how families pay.

💬 Questions to Ask Providers

The right questions to ask before you hire anyone.