When it’s time to get support for an aging parent or loved one, the terms used in the home care world can feel confusing—especially when you’re trying to figure out what kind of help is actually needed.
Two of the most commonly misunderstood roles are caregivers and home health aides (HHAs). While they share some similarities, they serve different purposes—and knowing the difference is important for your family’s decision-making.
Let’s break it down in a simple way.
What Is a Caregiver?
A caregiver (also called a personal care aide or companion caregiver) is someone who helps a person with daily tasks and basic personal care so they can stay safe and independent in their own home.
Caregivers often support with:
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Bathing, dressing, and grooming
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Meal preparation and feeding assistance
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Medication reminders
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Light housekeeping
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Companionship
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Transportation and errands
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Fall prevention and mobility support
Caregivers may or may not have medical training. Their focus is on long-term, non-medical support—keeping the client safe, engaged, and cared for on a daily basis.
At One Compassionate Home Care, our caregivers are trained, background-checked, and matched to clients based on personality and needs.
What Is a Home Health Aide (HHA)?
A home health aide provides care that includes basic health services, often under the supervision of a nurse or medical team. HHAs are typically assigned after a hospitalization or doctor’s referral, and may be part of a short-term recovery plan.
Home health aides may:
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Check vital signs (like temperature, blood pressure, heart rate)
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Assist with wound care or medical equipment
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Help with exercises or physical therapy plans
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Document symptoms or health changes for nurses to review
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Work as part of a care plan prescribed by a physician
HHAs are usually arranged through a home health agency and may be covered by Medicare or insurance—but the care is limited in duration and scope.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Caregiver | Home Health Aide (HHA) | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Daily living & companionship | Health-related tasks & rehab support |
| Medical care? | No | Yes (limited scope) |
| Insurance coverage | Private pay/Long-term care insurance/Limited Medicare | Often covered by insurance |
| Supervised by nurse? | No | Yes |
| Long-term support? | Yes | Usually short-term |
Which One Does Your Loved One Need?
If your loved one is recovering from surgery or managing a medical condition at home under a doctor’s direction, a home health aide may be appropriate—for a short time.
But if your parent:
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Needs daily help with bathing, dressing, or meals
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Is showing signs of memory loss or confusion
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Is struggling with loneliness or fall risk
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Simply needs consistent support to live safely at home
…then a caregiver is likely the better (and longer-term) solution.
Trusted Caregivers in the Chicago Suburbs
One Compassionate Home Care proudly serves families in Lake, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties. We help you assess the situation and connect you with caregivers who fit your loved one’s needs—emotionally, physically, and practically.
Next Steps
Still unsure what type of care is needed? We’re happy to talk it through. Schedule your free home care assessment or call (847) 989-7701 today to speak with a case manager.