It’s not always easy to discern what your parents’ medical needs are.
After all, a little loneliness or difficulty running errands alone is concerning, but it’s not as worrisome as dementia or trach care.
So what’s the right fit for home care for your parents?
We’ve got you covered with this guide to help you discern what kind of care is right for your loved one.
It’s hands-on, skilled care that meets medical needs you’d usually receive care for in a hospital or rehab center.
Private nursing services are ideal for seniors who have:
They’re not nurses, but they’re trained to help with things like:
One handles medical concerns like trach suctioning or IV meds. The other might help brush hair, serve dinner, and make sure your parent takes the right pill at the right time.
And while both can be part of a great care plan, knowing which one your parent needs depends on their health status, not just their age.
Thinking through these five questions can help families trying to decide what their parents need:
1. Has your parent recently been hospitalized or discharged from rehab?
If yes, private nursing services may be necessary for a smoother transition.
2. Do they need medical monitoring, such as oxygen levels, blood pressure, or glucose checks?
A private nurse is trained for those kinds of tasks.
3. Is medication management becoming complicated or dangerous?
A private duty nurse can safely administer injections or handle high-risk meds.
4. Are their needs mostly centered around bathing, dressing, and meals?
Sounds like a home health aide might be the better fit.
5. Do they live alone and get confused or forgetful often?
A home health aide can keep them company, prevent falls, and offer peace of mind.
If you answered “yes” to questions 1–3, consider private duty nursing. If your answers leaned toward 4 or 5, a home health aide may be enough for now.
If you’re ready to explore how in-home care could make a difference for your family, we’d love to hear from you!
BrightStar Care of Las Vegas W's team of professionals will assist you in finding the right caregiver for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about our caregiving services! Our office is at 4775 S. Durango Dr., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV, 89147. You may also call us at (702) 329-9833.
We look forward to hearing from you!
After all, a little loneliness or difficulty running errands alone is concerning, but it’s not as worrisome as dementia or trach care.
So what’s the right fit for home care for your parents?
We’ve got you covered with this guide to help you discern what kind of care is right for your loved one.
What is Private Duty Nursing?
Private duty nursing is a one-on-one service provided by a licensed nurse, usually an RN or LPN, right in your parents’ home.It’s hands-on, skilled care that meets medical needs you’d usually receive care for in a hospital or rehab center.
Private nursing services are ideal for seniors who have:
- Chronic health conditions like ALS, MS, or COPD.
- Post-surgical needs.
- Ventilator or tracheostomy care.
- Medication by IV or injection.
- Feeding tube management.
- Regular wound dressing or catheter care.
What Does a Home Health Aide Do?
Now, on the flip side, home health aides focus more on personal care and support with daily living.They’re not nurses, but they’re trained to help with things like:
- Bathing and dressing.
- Meal prep and light housekeeping.
- Medication reminders (but not administering injections).
- Mobility support and fall prevention.
- Running errands or providing companionship.
Private Nurse vs. Home Health Aide: What’s the Real Difference?
A private nurse provides medical care. A home health aide provides daily living support.One handles medical concerns like trach suctioning or IV meds. The other might help brush hair, serve dinner, and make sure your parent takes the right pill at the right time.
And while both can be part of a great care plan, knowing which one your parent needs depends on their health status, not just their age.
How to Tell What Level of Care Your Parent Really Needs
Understanding your parents’ in-home care needs can be challenging, but with a few simple questions, you can evaluate their health and needs.Thinking through these five questions can help families trying to decide what their parents need:
1. Has your parent recently been hospitalized or discharged from rehab?
If yes, private nursing services may be necessary for a smoother transition.
2. Do they need medical monitoring, such as oxygen levels, blood pressure, or glucose checks?
A private nurse is trained for those kinds of tasks.
3. Is medication management becoming complicated or dangerous?
A private duty nurse can safely administer injections or handle high-risk meds.
4. Are their needs mostly centered around bathing, dressing, and meals?
Sounds like a home health aide might be the better fit.
5. Do they live alone and get confused or forgetful often?
A home health aide can keep them company, prevent falls, and offer peace of mind.
If you answered “yes” to questions 1–3, consider private duty nursing. If your answers leaned toward 4 or 5, a home health aide may be enough for now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is private duty nursing covered by insurance?
Sometimes. Medicaid, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance may cover some or all of the cost, especially if the care is medically necessary. Medicare typically doesn’t cover private duty nursing for long-term care. Always check with your insurance agency to make sure.Can a private nurse work full-time?
Yes. Depending on your parents’ needs, a private nurse can provide care in shifts, overnight, or around the clock.Do home health aides do anything medical?
They can assist with basic health monitoring, like checking temperature or reminding about meds, but they’re not licensed to provide injections, IVs, or manage complex health equipment.How do I know whom to hire first?
You can start with our free consultation! We can evaluate your parents’ needs and suggest the best level of care.Contact BrightStar Care of Las Vegas W!
Whether your parent needs help with daily tasks, like preparing meals and running errands, or more complex medical issues, our team of experts is here to bring you peace of mind.If you’re ready to explore how in-home care could make a difference for your family, we’d love to hear from you!
BrightStar Care of Las Vegas W's team of professionals will assist you in finding the right caregiver for your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about our caregiving services! Our office is at 4775 S. Durango Dr., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV, 89147. You may also call us at (702) 329-9833.
We look forward to hearing from you!