The Difference Between Homecare, Home Health, and Nursing Homes

When an aging loved one starts needing extra support, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. Families often hear terms like homecare, home health, and nursing homes — but they don’t always mean the same thing.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the right kind of care, at the right time.

At Davida, our goal is to make that decision easier by explaining options in simple, supportive language.

What Is Homecare?

Homecare helps seniors stay safe, comfortable, and independent at home.

It is non-medical support. It doesn’t replace doctors or nurses — instead, it helps with everyday life.

Homecare may include:

• Help with bathing and grooming

• Dressing and personal hygiene

• Meal preparation and light housekeeping

• Mobility support and fall safety

• Companionship and conversation

• Transportation to appointments

• Daily check-ins and reminders

Homecare is ideal for seniors who:

• want to remain at home

• need help with daily tasks

• benefit from companionship and supervision

• want families to have peace of mind

With the right support, many seniors are able to stay where they feel happiest — surrounded by familiar routines, memories, and independence.

What Is Home Health?

Home health is different — it is medical care provided at home, and it must be ordered by a doctor.

Home health services may include:

• Skilled nursing visits

• Wound care

• Injections or IV therapy

• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

• Monitoring after hospital stays

• Support for chronic health conditions

Home health is usually:

• Short-term

• Focused on recovery, treatment, or education

• Often covered by insurance when medically necessary

Many seniors receive homecare and home health at the same time — and they work beautifully together:

 Home health treats medical needs.

Homecare supports comfort, safety, and independence.

What Is a Nursing Home?

A nursing home is a residential facility for people who cannot safely live at home — even with support.

They typically provide:

• 24/7 medical oversight

• Assistance with daily tasks

• Medication management

• Meals and activities

• Rehabilitation services in many cases

Nursing homes are usually best for seniors who:

• have complex medical needs

• require constant supervision

• are unsafe at home, even with help

For some families, a nursing home becomes the safest option — especially when health needs are significant.

Which Option Is Right for My Loved One?

Every situation is unique. The right choice depends on:

• Safety at home

• Health needs

• Level of independence

• Support from family or caregivers

• Doctor recommendations

• Personal preferences

A simple way to think about it:

 Needs help with daily life but wants to stay home? Homecare may be the best fit.

 Recovering from surgery, illness, or injury and needs medical treatment at home?Home health may be needed.

 Has serious medical needs and can’t safely live at home? A nursing home may be appropriate.

How Davida Can Help

At Davida, we support seniors who want to live at home — safely and confidently — while giving families reassurance and relief.

We take time to:

• listen

• understand needs

• create personalized care plans

• communicate closely with families (and medical providers when needed)

And if homecare isn’t the right solution, we help guide families toward other resources — because what matters most is what’s best for your loved one.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Talk.

If you’re unsure which type of care your loved one needs, you don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to answer questions and guide you step-by-step.

Contact Davida today — and let’s find the safest, most comfortable path forward.