In most states, you can't just decide on your own that you need home healthcare, no matter how obvious it may be -- because your insurance won't pay for it if you do. This is especially true with Medicare. You'll need to have your doctor make the decision and design a plan for your care.

If you're not homebound, don't expect your healthcare provider to be willing to pay for home healthcare. The government defines "homebound" as being unable to leave your home except under extreme difficulty, though exceptions are made for medical, religious, and grooming reasons.

If you're on Medicare, you need to be aware that most home healthcare is available only on a part-time or "intermittent" basis, and there may be a limit to the number of times your caregiver can assist you per week. You can, however, continue using the care for as long as you need it.