What is the difference between a Home Care Aide, Caregiver and Personal Care Aide?

These terms are interchangeable. Home Care Aides, Caregivers, Personal care aides (PCAs) such as those that work for Hello Home Care are the same. The role focuses on making a positive impact and helping older adults and seniors live safely and comfortably at home.

The role provides personal care such as help with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, toileting, and moving. In addition, they are often tasked with cleaning, running errands, meal prep, and arranging transportation. Some states require personal care aides to take training courses and earn a license or certificate. Caregivers, may provide companion care services. For example, they help older adults and seniors with things like housekeeping, exercise, pet care, car rides, and teaching basic technology. Notably, the emphasis for this job is on fellowship.

Next, let’s cover other hands-on care roles

Home health aides (HHAs)
HHAs provide the same support as Home Care Aides, as well as basic health care. While job requirements vary from location to location, most home health aides complete a minimum of 75 hours of training. They also need to pass their state’s certification exam.

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs)

perform basic nursing tasks and are managed by a registered nurse. They offer all the support that personal care and home health aides provide, plus basic medical care. What’s more, certified nursing assistants must complete 75 to 100 hours of training, then pass exams.

What's the difference between a Home Health Agency and Home Care Agency?

Home Health Agencies can provide medical services. Regulations vary state by state but the basic distinction is health vs non health support.

Which type of agency is Hello Home Care?

We are a non-medical home care agency. Meaning we can provide home care (including personal care and companion care) but are not permitted to provide medical care.