Top 8 Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Foster Care in Massachusetts
Families exploring Adult Foster Care in Massachusetts often have questions about eligibility, living arrangements, caregiver payment, MassHealth coverage, and the application process. These answers provide a practical starting point.
1. What Is Adult Foster Care in Massachusetts?
Adult Foster Care is a MassHealth-funded, home-based program for eligible members who need daily physical assistance or cueing and supervision with at least one qualifying activity of daily living. The member lives with a qualified caregiver and also receives professional nursing oversight and care management. Read our complete family guide.
2. Who May Qualify to Receive Care?
The person receiving care generally must be a Massachusetts resident age 16 or older, have qualifying MassHealth coverage, need daily physical assistance or cueing and supervision with at least one qualifying activity of daily living, and be able to receive services safely in a qualified home setting. Review the qualification requirements.
3. Who Can Be the Caregiver?
The caregiver generally must be at least age 18, live in the same home as the member, and complete the required screening, documentation, training, and approval process. A spouse or court-appointed legal guardian cannot serve as the paid caregiver. A parent cannot be the paid caregiver for a child under age 18.
4. Must the Member and Caregiver Live Together?
Yes. The member and caregiver must reside together in the same qualified home setting. They may already share a residence, or one may move into the other’s home before services begin.
5. What Daily Care Needs May Qualify?
The member must need daily physical assistance or cueing and supervision with at least one qualifying activity of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, walking, or transferring. The determination is based on an individual assessment, not a diagnosis alone. Learn more about activities of daily living.
6. How Much May a Family Caregiver Receive?
Through Mass Care Link, an approved family caregiver may receive up to $1,520 per month, based on need and MassHealth approval. Payment is not automatic, and the amount may be lower depending on the member’s assessed needs and authorization. Read our caregiver payment guide.
7. How Long Does Approval Take?
There is no guaranteed timeline. Timing depends on completion of the application, medical documentation, assessments, caregiver screening, MassHealth authorization, and placement requirements. Our guide explains what happens after applying.
8. How Do I Get Started?
Complete Mass Care Link’s prequalification questions or call 866-880-8889. Our Intake Department can review the initial requirements and explain the next steps.
Official Sources
This article provides general educational information. Eligibility, caregiver approval, payment, and authorization depend on current requirements and individual circumstances.