Building a Support Network: Resources for Caregivers in Massachusetts

Caregiving is a demanding job.Taking care of a loved one at home requires your energy and compassion 24-hours a day. These challenging conditions often lead to depression, burnout and lack of motivation. Caregivers with a support network have a better chance of maintaining balance and protecting their mental health. Caregivers in Massachusetts can build a support network by tapping into state-funded resources, regional aging networks, and peer groups.

In this article we explain:

• What resources are available to caregivers in Massachusetts
• How adult foster care through Mass Care Link provides financial, educational and medical support
• Ways to find community support as a caregiver

State & Community Programs for Caregivers in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, caregivers can access free resources, counseling, respite care, and potential financial assistance. The best starting point is MassOptions, a state service that connects you to customized care plans, caregiver specialists, and local support programs. 

• MassOptions: Call (800) 243-4636 or use the MassOptions Caregiver Supports page to connect with a specialist. They evaluate your situation and link you with local services.
• Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP): The Family Caregiver Support Program provides free services to non-paid caregivers (18+) of individuals aged 60+ or anyone with dementia. It covers counseling, training, and temporary respite care to prevent burnout.
• Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs): Depending on your exact location in Massachusetts, your local ASAP handles in-home services, meals, and support planning. Find your nearest ASAP via the Mass.gov Aging Services Network.

Educational & Specialized Support

• Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support: The Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (MADRC) provides educational factsheets, monthly support groups, and memory disorder information.
• Caregiver Action Network (CAN): Offers practical toolkits, medication checklists, and step-by-step guides for independent living assessments. Access their toolkits via Caregiver Action Network. 
• Regional Aging Services: Reach out to your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) or your town’s Council on Aging (COA) to access community-specific resources, adult day programs, and local in-person caregiver circles.
• State & Private Agencies: Connect with organizations like Mass Care Link to see if you qualify for training and financial caregiver stipends.
• Condition-Specific Support: If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or related dementias, utilize the Alzheimer’s Association for regional support groups and 24/7 helplines.
• Parenting Support: For caregivers raising children or dealing with family stress, call the statewide Parents Helping Parents Parental Stress Line at 1-800-632-8188.

Adult Foster Care through Mass Care Link

Adult foster care (AFC) provides financial stipends through MassHealth to caregivers who live with an individual who requires constant assistance with daily living activities (e.g., bathing, dressing, medication management). Care management providers like Mass Care Link can offer additional support for caregivers in the adult foster care program at no cost to you or the loved one you care for.

Training & Education: 

Caregiving requires a whole new set of skills. The training available online and in-person through Mass Care Link ensures you have the knowledge and know-how to provide the best care possible.

Administrative and Regulatory:

From understanding MassHealth paperwork and requirements to help setting up your living space so it complies with state regulations yet still retains the comfort of home, our team will assist you throughout the process.

Accessing Benefits:

Our case managers can help caregivers understand MassHealth paperwork and requirements, ensuring caregivers receive their tax-free stipend to help offset the cost of providing personal care. 

Compassionate Support:

At Mass Care Link we care for caregivers, providing the guidance, reassurance and support needed to make a full-time commitment to caring for an elder or person with disabilities at home. From prioritizing self-care to finding support from those in a similar situation, MassCare Link is here to help.

Building a Community of Caregivers

Caregivers can alleviate isolation by joining localized in-person support groups, utilizing respite care to attend community events, or participating in moderated online forums and video chats. Sharing experiences with peers offers emotional validation and practical tips to reduce burnout

Caregiver to Caregiver Respite Network: Join the Caregiver to Caregiver Respite Network to be matched with other families based on care needs, location, and cultural background. 

The Family Caregiver Alliance: The family care navigator tool at caregiver.org will help you locate caregiver resources (including support groups) in your community.

Caregiving podcasts. Download a podcast app to hear discussions and practical advice on caregiving and to remember that you are not alone! You can listen while you complete other tasks. 

AARP Caregiver Events: Virtual AARP Caregiver Events help connect caregivers and provide insight and info to ease their burden.

Connecting Through Technology: New technology can help fight loneliness and connecting caregivers with peers or virtual companions.

If you are providing care for a loved one at home you may qualify for monthly payments and ongoing support. Find out if you qualify.