For adults with disabilities, finding the right care option can be overwhelming. Families often struggle to balance independence, quality of life, and financial support while ensuring their loved one receives the care they need. While nursing homes and group homes are common choices, foster care for adults with disabilities is an alternative that provides personalized, home-based support in a family-like setting.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different care options available for adults with disabilities, the benefits of adult foster care, and how EmpowerCare’s Adult Foster Care program can help individuals and families navigate this important decision.

Care Options for Adults with Disabilities

When a person with disabilities needs ongoing care, there are several options to consider. Each provides different levels of independence, medical support, and community integration.

1. Adult Foster Care (AFC) – A Home-Based Alternative

Adult Foster Care (AFC) is a MassHealth-funded program that allows individuals with disabilities to receive care in a home setting rather than in an institution. A live-in caregiver, often a family member or close friend, provides daily assistance, companionship, and supervision while receiving financial support for their caregiving role.

Best for: Adults who need help with daily activities but prefer to live in a home environment rather than a facility.
Caregiver Compensation: Tax-free stipend to help support the cost of care.
Medical Supervision: Ongoing nurse visits and case management to ensure high-quality care.

EmpowerCare’s Adult Foster Care program provides caregivers with training, support, and financial assistance to make at-home care sustainable.

2. Group Homes & Assisted Living Facilities – Community Living with Support

Group homes and assisted living facilities provide shared housing for adults with disabilities, offering on-site caregivers, structured activities, and medical support. These facilities allow individuals to live semi-independently while still receiving help with daily needs.

Best for: Those who enjoy a community setting but still need moderate assistance with daily living.
Caregiver Ratio: Multiple residents share on-site caregivers.
Cost Consideration: Private pay or government-funded programs may assist with costs.

3. Nursing Homes & Skilled Nursing Facilities – For Complex Medical Needs

Nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities offer 24/7 medical supervision for individuals who require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, or advanced nursing support. These facilities are ideal for individuals with severe disabilities or complex medical conditions requiring frequent monitoring.

Best for: Adults with disabilities who need constant medical attention or have severe mobility limitations.
Caregiver Ratio: Higher level of medical supervision than group homes or AFC.
Cost Consideration: Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance can help cover expenses.

While necessary for some, many adults with disabilities thrive in home-based care options like Adult Foster Care rather than institutional settings.

Why Choose Adult Foster Care for Adults with Disabilities?

For many families, foster care for adults with disabilities is an ideal solution that provides:

• A Home Environment – Unlike institutional care, AFC allows individuals to live in a familiar, supportive home with a dedicated caregiver.
• Personalized, One-on-One Care – Caregivers provide individualized attention based on the specific needs of the person receiving care.
• Financial Support for Family Caregivers – If a family member or close friend is already providing care, AFC offers a tax-free stipend to ease financial burdens.
• Medical Supervision Without Institutionalization – AFC provides regular nurse check-ins and case management, ensuring quality care without requiring facility placement.

EmpowerCare’s AFC program provides caregivers with training, financial assistance, and professional support to ensure both caregivers and individuals thrive.

Who Qualifies for Adult Foster Care?

• Must be 16 years or older.
• Must require assistance with at least one or more Activities of Daily Living (bathing, dressing, mobility, eating, toileting).
• Must be enrolled in MassHealth if based in Massachusetts
• A caregiver (family member or friend) must be available to live in the home.

Not sure if you or a loved one qualifies? EmpowerCare can help determine eligibility and guide you through the application process.

EmpowerCare’s Adult Foster Care Program: How We Can Help

At EmpowerCare, we specialize in providing compassionate, high-quality Adult Foster Care services for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

• Support for Family Caregivers – Training, tax-free stipends, and ongoing professional support.
• Medical Oversight & Case Management – Regular nurse check-ins and individualized care planning.
• Guidance Through the MassHealth Application Process – We help families navigate eligibility and enrollment.

Interested in Adult Foster Care? Contact EmpowerCare today to learn more!
Visit empowercare.us to apply or get more information.

Choosing the Right Care Option for Adults with Disabilities

When considering foster care for adults with disabilities, families must weigh their loved one’s medical needs, personal preferences, and quality of life goals. Adult Foster Care offers a unique blend of home-based comfort, personalized attention, and financial support for caregivers.

If you’re exploring care options and want to keep your loved one in a home setting, EmpowerCare’s AFC program can provide the support and resources you need.

Ready to learn more? Contact EmpowerCare today and discover how Adult Foster Care can be the right fit for your family.