When a loved one needs help at home—whether it’s due to aging, a recent illness or injury, or managing a chronic condition—many families start by asking: Who covers the cost of care? It's a critical question that shapes the type of support your family can access and helps you prepare financially.
At Homewatch CareGivers of Northern Kentucky, we understand that navigating in-home care options and understanding payment sources can feel overwhelming. To make things easier, we’ve outlined three common types of in-home care services, what each involves, and how they’re typically paid for.
1. Skilled Nursing Care
Skilled nursing care is a clinical, high-level form of care provided by licensed medical professionals such as Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (LPNs/LVNs). This type of care is typically needed for individuals living with chronic health conditions or recovering from surgery or serious illness.
Services may include:
- Checking vital signs
- Blood draws and injections
- Wound care
- Catheter or tracheotomy care
- Medication management and administration
- Patient and caregiver education for condition self-management
Receiving skilled nursing care at home offers a convenient, comfortable, and often cost-effective alternative to regular visits to hospitals or clinics.
How it’s paid for:
Skilled nursing care at home is often covered when it’s prescribed by a healthcare provider. Payment sources may include:
- Medicare
- Medicaid
- Private health insurance
- Long-term care insurance
- Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits
2. Home Health Care
While home health care shares similarities with skilled nursing, it generally focuses on short-term recovery and rehabilitation. It is an ideal option for individuals transitioning home from a hospital stay or managing temporary limitations from a medical event such as a stroke or surgery.
Common services include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Short-term nursing care following injury, illness, or hospitalization
Home health care is goal-oriented, helping individuals regain independence and strength over a limited period of time.
How it’s paid for:
As with skilled nursing, home health care must be ordered by a physician to be eligible for coverage. It is typically covered by:
- Medicare (for a defined period)
- Medicaid (depending on state-specific rules)
- Private health insurance
- Long-term care insurance
- VA benefits
3. Home Care
Home care focuses on helping individuals live independently and safely at home by assisting with daily tasks that may become difficult due to age, illness, or disability. Unlike skilled care, these services are non-medical in nature and do not require a doctor's order.
Services may include:
- Bathing, dressing, and grooming assistance
- Meal preparation and feeding
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Running errands and grocery shopping
- Companionship and emotional support
This type of care can make a world of difference in someone’s day-to-day life, promoting dignity, routine, and comfort.
How it’s paid for:
Since home care does not involve clinical treatment, it is typically not covered by Medicare or traditional health insurance. However, it may be funded through:
- Out-of-pocket payments (private pay)
- Long-term care insurance
- VA Aid and Attendance benefits (for eligible veterans and their spouses)
Why Homewatch CareGivers of Northern Kentucky Stands Apart
Not all in-home care services are created equal—and at Homewatch CareGivers of Northern Kentucky, we go beyond the basics to deliver exceptional, dependable care that families can trust.
We provide services and safeguards that many other providers simply don’t, because we believe your loved one deserves more than just help—they deserve to thrive. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Quality Assurance Every 90 Days: We conduct routine quality checks to ensure that care remains consistent, personalized, and of the highest standard.
- Same-Day Service Available: When needs arise suddenly, we can provide care the very same day to help your loved one without delay.
- Thorough Caregiver Screening: All caregivers undergo annual screenings, including extensive background checks, so you can have complete peace of mind.
- Coordinated Care with All Partners: We collaborate with families, healthcare providers, and other support networks to ensure seamless, well-rounded care.
- Live Support 24/7/365: You’ll never get an automated response—there’s always a live person available to answer your call, day or night.
- Custom Care Plans: Every care plan is tailored to meet the unique and evolving physical, emotional, and social needs of your loved one, helping them find joy and fulfillment in everyday life.
- Relationship-Centered Approach: Our goal is to create an empowering, engaging environment that fosters genuine connections and lasting relationships.
- Trusted, Professional Caregivers: All our caregivers are insured, and we handle taxes and compensation, so families don’t have to worry about the legal or financial complexities of employment.
- Ongoing Caregiver Training: Each caregiver completes at least 12 hours of professional training every year to stay current, sharp, and effective.
Choosing Homewatch CareGivers means choosing a higher standard of care—one that values safety, dignity, and quality of life as much as you do.
Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the right type of in-home care begins with a clear understanding of your loved one’s needs and preferences. At Homewatch CareGivers of Northern KY, we offer personalized support to help you explore your options, understand what’s covered, and develop a care plan that fits both your family’s needs and budget.
Whether you're looking for skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, or non-medical support, we’re here to provide guidance every step of the way.
Need help navigating your in-home care options? Contact Homewatch CareGivers of Northern Kentucky today for a free consultation.
