Home Healthcare vs. Home Care: What’s the Difference?

December 30, 2025

When it comes to getting extra help at home, the terms home healthcare and home care are often used interchangeably, but they actually mean very different things. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right type of support for yourself or a loved one.

Home healthcare refers to medical care provided in your home by licensed professionals such as registered nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists or speech therapists. These services are often prescribed by a doctor after a hospital stay, surgery, or for managing a chronic condition. Examples include wound care, medication management, monitoring vital signs, and rehabilitation therapy. Home healthcare focuses on helping patients recover, regain independence, and avoid hospital readmissions—all under the supervision of medical professionals.

Home care, on the other hand, is non-medical assistance that helps with everyday tasks and enhances quality of life. Home care aides or caregivers can assist with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, and companionship. This type of care is especially valuable for older adults or individuals who need help with daily routines but do not require medical attention.

In simple terms, home healthcare helps you heal, while home care helps you live more comfortably.

Whether recovering from illness or simply needing extra support at home, understanding the difference between home healthcare and home care ensures you or your loved one receives the right kind of care, at the right time, in the comfort of home.

Presbyterian’s Home Health program can provide skilled home healthcare in many locations throughout New Mexico. For more information, visit our website at: phs.org/healthcareathome.