Caretaker vs. Visiting Nurse: 3 Key Differences for Seniors Living at Home
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Caretaker vs. Visiting Nurse: 3 Key Differences for Seniors Living at Home

Caretaker vs. Visiting Nurse: 3 Key Differences for Seniors Living at Home

Taking care of elderly loved ones while juggling other daily activities is no easy task. But thanks to visiting nurses and caretakers, people can go on with their lives knowing that their loved ones are in safe hands. 

However, it's challenging to choose between these two professionals. The trick is understanding their differences and the loved one's specific needs. 

The Differences Between a Caretaker and a Visiting Nurse

A caretaker and a visiting nurse have differences in the type of services they offer, the costs, and their qualifications. 

1. Types of Services

A caretaker provides a wide range of vital services depending on the support the elderly loved one needs. Their qualifications and relationship with the client are the other two determining factors. Here are their typical duties: 

  • Assisting with personal care such as grooming and toileting
  • Providing supervision, emotional support, and constant companionship
  • Overseeing and monitoring general health care such as medication and appointment reminders 
  • Assisting with mobility when using the shower, riding vehicles, and using wheelchairs
  • Doing basic errands such as preparing basic food and doing laundry
  • Helping in driving to activities and boarding wheelchair-accessible vehicles
  • Orienting the elders living with dementia or Alzheimer’s

On the other hand, a visiting nurse differs from a caretaker in that they visit elderly clients in their homes to administer medical care. They usually make several rounds daily to evaluate the elderly citizens' health, provide health assistance, and check in with caretakers. Here are some of their services:

  • Managing the elderly's care plans
  • Administering medication and completing vital tests
  • Testing for infections and weaknesses and inspecting wounds
  • Educating family members and caretakers on taking care of the senior clients
  • Recording the senior's health
  • Coordinating with other medical personnel

2. Costs of Services

According to Genworth statistics, the average cost of home care in Middlesex County and Monmouth Counties was about $29.50/hr in 2021. It was $185, $5625, and $67,496 per day, month, and year, respectively. 

But obviously, the exact figure varies with the area, home care provider, specific services, and shift schedules. For instance, the provider may offer various arrangements such as live-in, evening, or 24/7 care. 

Visiting nurses usually cost more than caretakers due to their medical expertise and care. Those in Monmouth County and the entire New Jersey state cost around $33/hr on average as of 2022. The figure is $344, $6,774, and $95,671 per day, month, and year, respectively. 

3. Qualifications

Professional caregivers don't require lengthy education qualifications (unlike nurses). In fact, a big heart, patience, and other interpersonal skills can get them started on the right foot in a home care facility.  

However, for them to become a certified nursing aide (CNA) in New Jersey, they must:

  • Have at least 90 hours of state-approved training
  • Pass the state certification exam
  • Meet training requirements

A visiting nurse also needs a big heart to care for seniors, but that isn't enough—they should also have extensive education qualifications to provide services like a pro. 

In New Jersey, a person must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) to qualify as a visiting nurse. These programs usually equip learners with practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

Other requirements include the following:

  • NCLEX-RN exam
  • Criminal background check
  • State nursing license
  • Maintained licensure

Senior Helpers of Manalapan, Your Go-to Home Care Providers

Are you hunting for senior home care in Monroe Township, Englishtown, Freehold, Manalapan, or Asbury Park? Senior Helpers of Manapalan provides professional, cost-effective, and friendly care. Contact us today to learn more.