Your dad forgets to eat lunch. Your mom seems more withdrawn these days. You notice their energy fading, and you’re unsure if it’s just age or something more. These are the moments when families begin asking, what kind of care does my loved one actually need?
Choosing between personal care and companion care can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help you understand the difference and decide what support truly fits your loved one’s daily life, especially right here in Indianapolis.
What Is Personal Care?
Personal care is hands-on assistance designed to support seniors with everyday physical tasks. It’s ideal for those who struggle with bathing, mobility, grooming, or staying safe while living at home.
Common services include:
- Bathing, toileting, grooming
- Dressing and mobility support
- Medication reminders
- Light meal prep and household tasks
If your loved one needs help moving safely through their day, personal care services provide respectful, one-on-one assistance that supports health and dignity.
What Is Companion Care?
Companion care, also known as companion home health care, focuses more on emotional and social support. It’s perfect for seniors who may still be physically capable but are at risk of isolation, depression, or cognitive decline from lack of daily interaction.
Services might include:
- Friendly conversation and companionship
- Light housekeeping and errands
- Meal planning or shared meals
- Transportation to appointments
- Recreational activities like walks or puzzles
Our companion and homemaker services go beyond the task list. They bring heart and connection into each visit, helping your loved one feel seen, heard, and engaged.
Personal Care vs. Companion Care: How to Choose
| Category | Personal Care | Companion Care |
| Focus | Physical, hands-on assistance | Emotional and social engagement |
| Best for | Limited mobility, chronic illness | Loneliness, forgetfulness, isolation |
| Includes | Bathing, toileting, grooming | Social visits, errands, companionship |
| Caregiver Type | Certified or trained aides | Companions or homemakers |
If your loved one is experiencing issues with mobility or personal hygiene, personal care is often the right first step. If they’re still fairly independent but need social interaction or help with daily tasks, companion care may be enough.
Real Story: Blending Services for Better Outcomes
Take Mr. Thompson, a widower living in the 46240 zip code near Castleton. His daughter noticed he was missing meals and forgetting to pay bills. He also struggled with stairs and had stopped showering regularly.
Caring With A Purpose provided both personal care and companion services. An in home caregiver now assists with daily hygiene and mobility, while a companion visits twice a week to play cards, prepare lunch, and keep him company. His health, mood, and outlook have all improved significantly.
Why Indianapolis Families Trust Caring With A Purpose
We know that choosing between personal care vs. companion care is not just a service decision it’s a life decision. That’s why Caring With A Purpose Home Care LLC stands apart.
- Based locally at 3815 River Crossing Parkway, we serve the heart of Indianapolis
- All care is customized, not pulled from a template
- We match clients with a home caregiver who aligns with their personality and preferences
- We’re experienced with Indiana’s Medicaid Waiver program to help with funding
- Most of all, we bring a community-first approach to care. We’re not a national brand we’re your neighbors
Whether you’re in Meridian Hills, Nora, Broad Ripple, or Keystone, we deliver care with empathy, consistency, and a local understanding.
Common Questions About These Services
How do I know which care type is right?
If your loved one needs help getting dressed or staying clean, personal care is key. If they’re mostly independent but seem lonely or disorganized, companion care is likely the better choice.
Can I get both services at once?
Absolutely. Many of our care plans combine the structure of personal care with the warmth of companion support.
Is a home caregiver trained?
Yes. Our team members receive specialized training and undergo background checks. Your loved one’s safety is always a top priority.
Can Medicaid cover personal or companion care?
Yes. As an approved provider, we can walk you through qualifying for Indiana’s Medicaid Waiver. Visit our Medicaid Waiver page for more details.
Let’s Make This Simple for You
Choosing between personal and companion care doesn’t need to feel like a guessing game. We’re here to help you explore your options and design the best possible support system for your loved one.
Visit our personal care services and companion and homemaker care pages to learn more. Or contact us now for a free consultation with one of our care coordinators.
Let us help you build the right care plan one that brings relief, dignity, and peace of mind to your family.
