How to Get Home Care in Massachusetts
Quick answer: Start by identifying the person’s daily support and clinical needs, then compare programs, confirm eligibility and coverage requirements, and complete the provider’s assessment process.
Choose care that fits your family’s needs
Begin by writing down the help your loved one needs each day, their preferences, and any concerns about safety at home. Share this information with their health care provider and the agencies you are considering. It helps the team identify appropriate services and develop a care plan.
Home care can include different kinds of support. Skilled nursing or therapy, help with personal care, and support from a live-in caregiver have different coverage and approval requirements. Ask each provider which services it offers, whether it accepts the person’s insurance, and what costs or authorization requirements may apply.
Massachusetts Adult Foster Care is one option for eligible MassHealth members who live with a qualified caregiver and need daily personal-care assistance. Approved Mass Care Link caregivers may receive up to $1,520 per month, based on need and MassHealth approval. Enrollment and payment are not automatic. Review our Adult Foster Care qualification guide and family caregiver payment guide.
Questions to ask a home-care provider
- Which services do you provide, and what qualifications does your team have?
- Who will coordinate care and answer questions?
- What assessments, records, and approvals are needed before services begin?
- What training and ongoing support are available to the caregiver?
- How are concerns, changes in care needs, and caregiver absences handled?
Steps for finding appropriate home care
The process is easier when families begin with the person’s actual needs rather than a service name.
- List the daily activities that require help, cueing, or supervision
- Identify any skilled nursing, therapy, behavioral, or safety needs
- Confirm insurance coverage and program eligibility requirements
- Compare provider services, communication, and ongoing support
- Complete required assessments and authorization steps
Starting with Mass Care Link
Mass Care Link provides Adult Foster Care for eligible Massachusetts residents who live with an approved caregiver. Families throughout Massachusetts can complete our prequalification questions or call 866-880-8889, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Our intake team can review your situation and explain the next steps. Read what happens after applying for Adult Foster Care.
This article provides general educational information. Eligibility, caregiver approval, payment, and authorization depend on current requirements and individual circumstances.