At EmpowerCare, we frequently receive questions from families wondering whether their loved one qualifies for Adult Foster Care (AFC). Many caregivers want to provide care at home but are unsure if they meet the requirements or how the program works. Since eligibility can be confusing, we’re breaking it down in this guide to help you understand who qualifies, what the benefits are, and how to apply.
Caring for a loved one who requires daily assistance can be both rewarding and challenging. Many families struggle to find the right balance between providing care and maintaining financial stability. AFC is a valuable option for individuals who need ongoing care while remaining in a home setting. This program offers financial assistance and professional support to caregivers, allowing family members or close friends to provide care without overwhelming financial or emotional burdens.
But who qualifies for Adult Foster Care, and what benefits does the program provide? In this guide, we’ll break down the eligibility criteria, benefits, and how you can apply for AFC in Massachusetts.
What Is Adult Foster Care?
Adult Foster Care is a MassHealth-funded program that allows individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions to receive care in a home environment rather than in a nursing facility. Under this program, a live-in caregiver—who is often a family member or close friend—provides daily assistance with personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support.
Caregivers receive a tax-free stipend for their work, and the program ensures that both the caregiver and the individual receiving care have access to ongoing support from healthcare professionals.
Who Qualifies for Adult Foster Care?
To qualify for Adult Foster Care, individuals must meet certain medical and financial criteria. Below are the key eligibility requirements:
1. The Individual Must Require Daily Assistance
A person is eligible for AFC if they need help with at least one or more Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Eating
- Toileting
- Transferring (moving from a bed to a chair, for example)
- Mobility (requiring supervision to move safely)
Individuals must have a medical condition, disability, or chronic illness that prevents them from completing these tasks independently.
2. Must Be a MassHealth Member
In Massachusetts, Adult Foster Care is funded by MassHealth (Medicaid). To qualify for the program, the individual receiving care must be a MassHealth recipient. If they are not currently enrolled, they may need to apply for MassHealth before becoming eligible for AFC services.
3. The Caregiver Must Live with the Individual
Unlike traditional home care services, AFC requires that the caregiver live full-time in the same residence as the person receiving care. This ensures round-the-clock support and supervision.
4. Must Not Require Skilled Nursing Care
While Adult Foster Care provides assistance with daily activities, it is not designed for individuals who require 24/7 medical supervision from a nurse. Those needing skilled nursing care may be better suited for a nursing home or home health services.
Who Can Be a Caregiver in the Program?
The AFC program allows family members, friends, or trained caregivers to become providers. However, there are some restrictions:
Eligible Caregivers: Spouses, adult children, siblings, or close friends.
Ineligible Caregivers: The individual’s legal guardian or spouse cannot be their AFC caregiver under MassHealth regulations.
Caregivers do not need to have medical experience, as the AFC program provides ongoing training and professional support to ensure high-quality care.
What Are the Benefits of Adult Foster Care?
For both caregivers and individuals receiving care, AFC offers a range of benefits that improve quality of life and reduce financial strain.
Individuals Receiving Care:
- Remain in a Home Setting – Allows individuals to stay in a familiar, comfortable environment rather than a facility.
- Personalized Care – Provides one-on-one support tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Regular Medical Supervision – AFC agencies provide oversight from nurses and case managers to ensure the best care possible.
Caregivers:
- Tax-Free Stipend – Caregivers receive financial assistance, making it easier to provide care without financial hardship.
- Training & Support – AFC agencies offer guidance, training, and regular check-ins with nurses and social workers.
- Strengthened Family Bonds – Many caregivers find AFC rewarding, as it allows them to care for a loved one without having to seek outside employment.
How to Apply for Adult Foster Care in Massachusetts
If you or a loved one may qualify for Adult Foster Care, the application process involves several key steps:
1. Contact an AFC Provider
Organizations like EmpowerCare help families navigate the application process, assess eligibility, and provide ongoing support.
2. Complete a Medical Evaluation
A healthcare professional will assess the individual’s needs to confirm that they require daily assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
3. Enroll in MassHealth (if not already enrolled)
Because AFC is funded by MassHealth, the individual must be a current recipient. If not, they may need to apply for coverage.
4. Match with a Qualified Caregiver
If a family member or friend is available to provide care, they can apply to be the designated AFC caregiver. If no caregiver is available, an AFC agency may assist in finding one.
5. Begin AFC Services
Once approved, AFC services begin, and caregivers receive training, support, and financial compensation for their care.
EmpowerCare: Helping Families Access Care Services
At EmpowerCare, we specialize in connecting families with Adult Foster Care services in Massachusetts. Whether you need help navigating the application process or finding a caregiver, we’re here to provide support.
- Personalized care plans tailored to your loved one’s needs
- Ongoing training and support for caregivers
- Expert guidance through the MassHealth application process
Contact us today to learn more about Adult Foster Care and how we can assist your family.
Visit Our Website to apply!
Final Thoughts: Is Adult Foster Care Right for Your Family?
For many families, Adult Foster Care is a life-changing solution that allows loved ones to receive the care they need in a supportive, home environment. If you or a family member require daily assistance and meet the eligibility criteria, AFC could be the perfect option.
By working with a trusted provider like EmpowerCare, families can access the resources, financial assistance, and professional guidance needed to make Adult Foster Care a success.