Skilled vs. Non-Skilled Care
Skilled care involves licensed medical professionals such as RNs, LPNs, and therapists. Common services include:
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Skilled nursing
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Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
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Medical social services
These services are typically short-term, medically necessary, and often covered by Medicare or insurance. They aim to support recovery, restore independence, and manage chronic conditions.
Non-skilled care (also called custodial care) supports individuals with chronic or degenerative conditions. It focuses on routine assistance rather than medical treatment and is typically not covered by Medicare long-term. Types of non-skilled support include:
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Personal Care (ADLs): Bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, toileting, mobility
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Homemaker Services (IADLs): Meal prep, laundry, errands, light cleaning, companionship, medication reminders
Boardwalk Homecare provides non-skilled home care services on an hourly or live-in basis.
In-Home Care for Seniors
Most seniors prefer to remain in their homes as they age. Achieving this goal requires a thoughtful evaluation of their care needs and available support—family, community, and financial—to ensure safety, comfort, and quality of life. Home care provides several key benefits, including:
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Promoting independence and control over one’s environment
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Personalized care tailored to individual routines and preferences
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Faster recovery with reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections
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Emotional well-being, especially for those with dementia
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Comfort of home, including personal belongings, pets, and familiarity
Hourly vs. Live-In Care
Hourly care offers flexible support for seniors requiring part-time assistance with daily tasks that is scheduled at specific times of the day. Another option is live-in care which provides 24/7 support coverage with a caregiver residing in the home. Live-in care is ideal for seniors with memory and/or ambulatory issues, a need for intermittent care, or for those who have limited family support. Choosing between hourly or live-in home care often depends on:
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Level of care needed
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Home layout and safety
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Availability of family support
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Financial resources
If you are uncertain about the best senior care option, do not hesitate to consult a case manager at Boardwalk Homecare. Our experienced team is here to help you evaluate your needs and guide you toward the most suitable solution for your situation.
Settings For Home Care Services
While most people associate home care with services provided in a private residence, it can also be accessed in a variety of care settings. The goal is the same in each: to deliver personalized, non-medical support that enhances quality of life and promotes independence.
The most common setting for home care, services are delivered directly in the individual’s home. Caregivers assist with daily tasks, personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and more—helping clients age in place safely and comfortably.
Even in skilled nursing facilities, residents may require additional one-on-one support. Private duty caregivers can supplement the facility’s staff by providing more personalized care, companionship, and oversight beyond what is typically included.
Home care can complement services in assisted living facilities by offering extra help tailored to the resident’s needs. This might include mobility support, evening companionship, or focused attention during periods of transition or recovery.
Home health aides can also support individuals during hospital stays. Whether it is companionship, personal assistance, or advocacy, this added presence can reduce anxiety, prevent complications, and improve the patient experience—especially during long admissions or when family cannot be present.
