Updated October 2026

Whether you’re recovering from surgery, need a little help with daily tasks, or are arranging care for a loved one, the right support at home can make a big difference. Here’s how home care works in Cobourg, Port Hope and across Northumberland County, from publicly funded care to private personal support workers (PSWs), and how to choose the right fit.

Local home care providers

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Three ways to get help at home

1. Publicly funded home care (Ontario Health atHome)

If you qualify, the Ontario government pays for home care. Call Ontario Health atHome at 1-833-515-1234, or ask your doctor or the hospital to make a referral. A care coordinator will assess your needs and, if you’re eligible, create a care plan. Services can include:

• Nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and other health professionals
• Personal support with bathing, dressing, eating and toileting
• Some homemaking, such as laundry and light cleaning, for people who also receive personal support

The hours available depend on your assessed needs and the services in your community, so many families combine public care with private or community help.

2. Community support services

Local non-profits offer practical help at set fees. In our area, Community Care Northumberland offers services such as home help (light housekeeping, laundry, errands and meal prep), home maintenance, meals and transportation, with offices in Cobourg and Brighton. No referral is needed. Call 1-866-514-5774.

3. Private home care agencies

Private agencies charge by the hour and can usually start quickly. They’re often used to add more hours, or for help that public care doesn’t cover, such as:

• Companionship and social visits
• Rides and company at medical appointments
• Overnight, 24-hour or live-in care
• Respite care, so family caregivers can rest or travel
• Help after a hospital stay or surgery

10 questions to ask a home care agency

1. Do your caregivers have police checks, and what training do they have?
2. Are you insured and bonded?
3. Will we see the same caregiver each visit?
4. Is there a minimum number of hours per visit or per week?
5. What happens if a caregiver is sick or can’t make it?
6. Do you create a written care plan, and how often is it updated?
7. How do you handle emergencies or a change in health?
8. How will you keep family members updated?
9. What are your rates, and are evenings, weekends or holidays different?
10. Is there a contract, and how much notice do you need to change or cancel?

Frequently asked questions

Is home care free in Ontario?

Publicly funded home care is paid for by the Ontario government if you qualify. Contact Ontario Health atHome at 1-833-515-1234 for an assessment. Community support services may have set fees, and private agencies charge by the hour.

What does a PSW do?

A personal support worker (PSW) helps with everyday personal care, such as bathing, dressing, eating, getting around safely and light household tasks, so people can stay comfortable and independent at home.

Can I combine public and private home care?

Yes. Many families use publicly funded care and add private hours for extra help, companionship, overnight care or appointments.

How quickly can private home care start?

Many private agencies can start within days, and some can arrange care on short notice. Ask each agency about its availability in your town.

Sources: Government of Ontario: Home and community care; Central East Healthline: Community Care Northumberland Home Help and Home Maintenance. This page is general information, not medical advice. Program details can change, so check with each provider directly. Listing a business in our directory is not an endorsement.