What Is an In-Home Caregiver and Does Medicare Pay for One?

What is an in-home caregiver?

An in-home caregiver is a professional who provides non-medical or skilled support to help individuals remain safely and comfortably in their homes. Depending on the client’s needs, caregivers may assist with personal care, companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, mobility assistance, or light housekeeping. Some caregivers are trained to provide specialized support for conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s, or chronic illness.

At Caretech, our in-home caregivers are compassionate professionals dedicated to helping clients maintain their dignity, independence, and quality of life—while giving families peace of mind.

Types of in-home care

In-home care is not one-size-fits-all. It ranges from simple daily companionship to complex medical care. The two main categories are:

1. Non-medical home care

Also known as personal care or companion care, this type of support helps with daily living activities such as:

• Meal preparation and grocery shopping
• Bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Transportation and errands
• Companionship and conversation
• Housekeeping and laundry
• Safety monitoring and mobility support

Non-medical caregivers do not perform clinical tasks but play a vital role in maintaining comfort, nutrition, and social connection.

2. Skilled home health care

Skilled care is provided by licensed professionals such as registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or therapists. These services are often short-term and may include:

• Medication management and administration
• Wound care and IV therapy
• Chronic disease monitoring
• Rehabilitation after surgery or hospitalization

Caretech provides both types of in-home care in select locations—non-medical home care across several states and skilled nursing care in Wyoming.

Does Medicare pay for an in-home caregiver?

It’s one of the most common questions families ask. The answer depends on the type of care needed.

What Medicare typically covers

Medicare covers skilled home health care—medical services prescribed by a doctor, such as part-time nursing or therapy—when certain conditions are met. To qualify, the person receiving care must:

• Be homebound (unable to leave home without significant effort or assistance)
• Need skilled services provided by a nurse or therapist
• Have a plan of care approved by a doctor

Under these conditions, Medicare may pay for skilled nursing, therapy, and limited home health aide services (for personal care while receiving medical care).

Note: Skilled care requires licensure and is not a service provided by Caretech within the states of Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa. Caretech does provide licensed skilled care in Wyoming.

What Medicare does not cover

Medicare does not cover long-term, 24-hour, or non-medical personal care services such as companionship, cooking, cleaning, or help with daily living—unless these are part of a short-term skilled care plan. These ongoing supports typically fall under non-medical home care, which is paid privately or through Medicaid and other funding sources.

Medicaid vs. Medicare coverage for in-home caregiver

Although their names sound similar, Medicare and Medicaid are different programs with different benefits:

• Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people over 65 and some younger individuals with disabilities. It primarily covers medical and skilled home health services.
• Medicaid is a joint state and federal program that helps low-income individuals cover both medical and non-medical services, including long-term in-home care in many cases.

Many Caretech clients receive help through Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, which can cover personal care, respite care, and other non-medical supports. Our team helps families explore eligibility and apply for assistance through these programs.

Examples of Medicaid-covered services may include:

• Companionship and social engagement
• Personal care assistance with bathing and dressing
• Meal preparation and household chores
• Transportation to medical appointments
• Respite care for family caregivers

How to apply for in-home caregiver services

Applying for in-home care can feel overwhelming—but Caretech simplifies the process. Here’s how to get started:

1. Assess your needs. Determine if medical or non-medical support is required. Caretech can assist you with this evaluation.
2. Contact Caretech. Reach out through our Contact page or by phone at 402-697-5121 to discuss your situation with a Care Coordinator.
3. Care assessment. We’ll conduct an in-home evaluation to understand care needs, safety, schedule preferences, and family goals.
4. Explore coverage options. Our team helps you review available payment options such as Medicaid waivers, veterans’ benefits, long-term care insurance, or private pay.
5. Start care. Once your plan is in place, we’ll match you with a qualified caregiver who fits your needs and personality. We remain in close communication to ensure ongoing satisfaction and quality of care.

Caretech’s approach is simple: compassionate guidance, clear communication, and support that extends beyond the first day of care. We’re with you for every step of your journey.

Why choose Caretech for in-home care

Caretech is built on compassion, trust, and excellence. We combine professional expertise with heartfelt service, making us a trusted choice for seniors and adults with disabilities. When you partner with Caretech, you can expect:

• Qualified caregivers trained in safety, communication, and condition-specific care
• Flexible schedules customized to your lifestyle
• Assistance with Medicaid and waiver applications
• Comprehensive care coordination between families, healthcare providers, and caregivers
• Consistent, reliable service backed by a team that truly cares

Whether you need temporary support after a hospital stay or ongoing help for a chronic condition, Caretech provides the best possible care—where it matters most: at home.

Frequently asked questions

Does Medicare pay for personal care services?

Generally, no. Medicare covers skilled home health services prescribed by a doctor, but not ongoing non-medical assistance such as bathing, cooking, or companionship. Medicaid or private pay options may cover those services.

How do I qualify for Medicaid home care?

Eligibility depends on income, assets, and care needs. Each state has different criteria. Caretech can connect you with your state’s Medicaid office or help guide you through the application process.

Can I choose my caregiver?

Yes. Caretech values relationships and compatibility. We work closely with families to match caregivers based on personality, skills, and experience.

Is in-home care only for seniors?

No. Caretech supports people of all ages—including adults with disabilities, those recovering from surgery, or anyone who needs assistance to remain safely at home.

What if my needs change over time?

Caretech care plans are flexible. We regularly reassess your situation and adjust hours or services as needed to ensure continuous support.

How much does in-home care cost?

Costs vary depending on hours, level of care, and location. Our team provides transparent estimates during your care consultation and helps identify funding programs you may qualify for.

Take the next step with Caretech

Finding the right in-home caregiver shouldn’t be confusing or stressful. Caretech is here to guide you—helping you understand coverage, explore payment options, and receive compassionate, dependable care at home. Whether you’re applying for Medicaid or managing private care, we’ll walk beside you every step of the way.

Our caregivers are more than helpers—they’re lifelines of connection, trust, and compassion. If you or a loved one need in-home care, let us show you what the best possible care looks like.

Contact Caretech today to learn about in-home caregiver services and see how we can help your family live safely and independently at home.