At a Glance: Home Health Aides (Agencies)

What they do: Offer personal care such as bathing, toileting, and feeding, along with minor medical care and limited housekeeping (such as changing sheets)

Cost: Ranges from about $15 to $40 an hour, depending on location, services provided, and training (certified aides, who have more medical training, earn more); if medical help needed, may be covered short-term by Medicare if deemed medically required, longer term by Medicaid

Best for: Those who need some personal or light medical care in order to stay in their home

Learn more: 15 Interview Questions, What are my responsibilities if I hire an in-home caregiver?