Medical Care

Home Care Vs. the Alternatives: How to Choose?

"Many older Americans choose to move into some form of senior housing. But each year more and more choose to stay in their homes. It’s not a black-and-white choice, and whatever arrangement you choose, home care can dramatically expand your options."

An April 2023 article by AgingInPlace.org addresses the possible options and how to decide on direction.

"For many these days, the ideal approach to aging involves aging in place— staying in your home and taking the steps necessary to remain independent for as long as possible. Many are still choosing the better-known options: retirement communities, assisted living facilities, and other institutions designed to care for older people. But an increasing number of seniors are choosing to stay at home and get whatever help they need to remain there."

This article is a comprehensive look at the options to be considered.

Note: AgingInPlace.org keeps our resources free by working as an affiliate partner with some companies mentioned on our site. We may earn a commission when you click on certain product links.

Bayada

BAYADA was founded on the principle that health care gets better when clients get better care at home—the place they most want to be. From the nurse, therapist, or aide in the home, to thousands of committed employees supporting their work, delivering that care is our highest priority and greatest joy.

The BAYADA Way, our company philosophy, is at the heart of everything we do, and the ever-present guiding force in our daily work—in spirit and in action. The mission, vision, beliefs, and core values it expresses define our culture and embody the essence of what we stand for, believe in, and value.

Since 1975, BAYADA Home Health Care has had a special purpose to help people have a safe home life with comfort, independence, and dignity.

BAYADA Home Health Care appears to be able to support the full range of home healthcare needs. Check out their website to learn more.

Angels Care Home Health

Angels Care Home Health is a Medicare-Certified Home Health agency providing quality home health care services by offering caring, compassionate and cost-effective service focused on each patient’s unique needs. Under the direction of the physician, we administer medical services to the patient while strictly adhering to the physician’s plan of care. Quality, commitment and dedication are the driving forces in our agency.

We provide skilled nursing care, restorative therapy and medical social services to patients in their homes or wherever they may reside, including assisted living facilities and retirement communities. Our services, emphasizing patient and family education, create a continuum of care throughout the disease process and empowers our patients and their caregivers to take an active role in managing their condition or the condition of a loved one. Services are provided without regard to race, color, natural origin, sex, handicap or age.

They appear to be primarily a medical care provider. Check their website for more information.

VA Nursing Homes, Assisted Living and Home Health Care

As a Veteran, you may be able to get assisted living, residential (live-in), or home health care through VA. Find out how to access these long-term care services.

What kinds of long-term care services does VA offer for sick or disabled Veterans?

Our long-term care services include:

. 24/7 nursing and medical care
. Physical therapy
. Help with daily tasks of living (like bathing, dressing, making meals, and taking medicine)

. Comfort care and help with managing pain

. Support for caregivers who may need skilled help or a break so they can work, travel, or run errands.

You can get this care in many different settings—some run by VA and others run by state or community organizations that we inspect and approve.

Care settings may include:

. Nursing homes
. Assisted-living centers
. Private homes where a caregiver supports a small group of individuals
. Adult day health centers
. Veterans’ own homes

You can learn more about the different types of care on this page or review our guide to long-term services and supports.

AZ DES - Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)

Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) provides help with daily activities while allowing many individuals to remain in their own homes or live with their families by reducing the need for institutional care.

Services include:

adult day care
adult day health care
home delivered meals and meals at senior centers
home health aide
housekeeping
personal care
respite care
transportation
visiting nurse

Services appear to be primarily non-medical but may not be limited to non-medical for those under AHCCCS (AZ Medicaid). Check their website and call for additional information if necessary.