Choosing the Right Adult Foster Care Provider: Key Considerations

When a loved one can no longer care for themselves, but still want to live at home, adult foster care is one of the options available. There are several benefits to this caregiving solution. Living at home allows members to stick to their routines and participate in their community. The personalized care provided is especially beneficial for those with evolving health conditions such as diabetes or Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, the adult foster care is a 24-hour care option that costs less than nursing homes or assisted living facilities, and is often less expensive than in-home personal care services. 

The medical care in this situation is overseen by regular nursing visits managed by an adult foster care service that also provides training and support for caregivers. But how do you select the best adult foster care provider? In this article we will answer the questions:

• What is adult foster care?
• What are the first things you should consider when researching care providers?
• What are the key considerations to use when comparing various adult foster care providers?

What is Adult Foster Care?

Funded by MassHealth (Medicaid), adult foster care allows a family member or friend to provide 24-hour care for qualified members in their own homes. Caregivers receive a tax-free payment for their services, to help with the burden of care. To qualify, care recipients must need help with at least one of the activities of daily living, such as moving around, getting dressed, using the bathroom or preparing food.

Initial Concerns

When you first consider adult foster care, these are the questions you can ask as you begin to learn about different providers.

• Location: Does the provider’s service area include the area where you or your loved one will be receiving care?
• Medical Support: Does the organization have the ability to handle the medical issues facing you or your care recipient?
• Training: Does the organization provide training and support for caregivers? 
• Community: What options does the organization provide for caregivers to connect and learn from one another?
• Technology: Does the provider have the technological infrastructure to facilitate online documentation and communication?

Key Considerations

As you continue researching different care providers, keep in mind these important capabilities that can elevate one option above another. 

Ease of Payment

Most caregivers in the adult foster care program rely on their monthly tax-free payment to cover the day-to-day costs of care. Without the ability to maintain a full-time job, this payment can be one of their only sources of income. When reviewing adult foster care providers, look for one that can help you streamline your payment process and ensure you receive your funds promptly. Mass Care Link prioritizes your payment, even helping with paperwork when necessary. 

Experience & Reputation 

How long has the provider been offering adult foster care services? Review any marketing materials with a critical eye. Are they certified? Do they have testimonials from members and caregivers? How is their reputation? Ask around with local elder care organizations and healthcare professionals. Ideally you will find a long-standing provider with established relationships with community organizations and medical providers. For more than a decade, Mass Care Link has been helping families in Massachusetts care for their loved ones at home.

Skilled, Reliable Employees

Care managers and registered nurses are in high demand. The most qualified are most likely to seek employment from an organization offering the most competitive pay and benefits. An organization that treats its employees with care and respect also reduces turnovers, so you will be able to build relationships with the nurses and care managers and ensure better continuity of care. Mass Care Link attracts the best employees because of our superior benefits and working environment. 

Personalized Care 

You or your loved one deserve individualized care. Look for an organization that creates a detailed personalized care plan (PCP). A personalized care plan is a comprehensive document outlining the specific needs, goals, and strategies for an AFC member’s care. It considers the individual’s medical, emotional, and social requirements, creating a structured approach to support their daily living and long-term well-being. At Mass Care Link it’s always the first step in establishing care.

Help with Paperwork & Forms

Look for an organization that will simplify administrative tasks and reduce the stress of managing complex paperwork. While understanding MassHealth paperwork and requirements can seem impossibly complicated, a qualified  team should ease the burden through assistance and guidance. At Mass Care Link our assistance goes above and beyond,  even helping you and the member you care for with setting up their living space so it complies with state regulations yet still retains the comfort of home.

Flexible Scheduling

Smaller providers may only have a few care managers and nurses available on any given day. Larger organizations like Mass Care Link have the additional resources necessary to provide flexible scheduling options, coordinating home visits more efficiently to better sync with your schedule and meet the needs of your loved one.

Guidance with Medical Care Requirements

Look for a provider that takes the time to offer clear guidance on medical care requirements to provide the best possible care. At Mass Care Link our care managers and nurses take the time to thoroughly explain all medical requirements and treatments. We can help you schedule doctor’s appointments, organize prescriptions and even overcome language barriers to ensure your loved one understands every aspect of the care they receive. 

Community Benefits and Resources

Select an organization that can unlock additional community benefits and resources to support your caregiving efforts. Community can help reduce isolation in seniors living at home. Mass Care Link can help members maintain a connection to their community, through education, outreach and support.

For over a decade, Mass Care Link has helped families in Massachusetts stay together by making at-home care possible. Find out if you qualify for the program with this quick survey.