Figuring out what type of home help you need can be a confusing mix of medical terms and titles that don't always explain the training. Sometimes, families choose to seek the help of a geriatric care manager to evaluate the entire situation, from medical needs to finances, and present the best options.
In general, most people who need help at home require the services of one of three types of caregivers: home health aides, certified nurse aides, or companions. Most do not need the skills of a registered nurse, even if the idea of having a nurse provides comfort to the patient.
In general, a Home Health Aide is trained to work with a patient in the home and a Certified Nurse’s Aide is trained to work with a patient in a facility such as a nursing home or rehabilitation center. The training and type of care provided can vary from state to state.