What is Adult Foster Care (AFC)?
The MassHealth Adult Foster Care (AFC) program helps individuals who have a medical or mental condition with activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), as well as nursing oversight and care management of the personal care provided by a qualified caregiver. The MassHealth member and their caregiver live together in either the member or the caregiver’s home. The caregiver can be related or unrelated to the member. Receiving Adult Foster Care services helps members maintain their independence in their home and in the community.
Who is Eligible?
MassHealth members who
- Qualify for MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth, as well as those enrolled in MassHealth’s integrated care options—One Care, Senior Care Options (SCO), or PACE.
- Are 16 or older
- Need physical assistance or cueing and supervision with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) such as bathing, dressing, eating, or mobility
- Can live safely in a home setting with a caregiver’s support
This is a summary of who may be eligible for AFC services. Full eligibility requirements can be found at 130 CMR 408.000.
Program Benefits
- Personalized Care. Participants receive daily personal care assistance from their AFC caregiver as well as nursing oversight and care management.
- Home Environment. Care is provided in the member’s home or the AFC caregiver’s home.
- Caregiver Training & Support. Ongoing training and support are available for caregivers to ensure quality care.
- Multidisciplinary Team Approach to Care. A registered nurse and case manager provide regularoversight of the personal care provided by the AFC caregiver.
Who Can Be a Caregiver?
- Family members (excluding spouses or legal guardians) or non-family caregivers able and willing to provide daily personal care as a live-in caregiver.
- Must meet specific qualifications in accordance with AFC program regulations.
Why Choose AFC?
- Because you want personal care services provided by a live-in giver who is available 24/7;
- Because you want to remain in your own home or the home of your AFC caregiver.
Get Involved!
If you or a loved one may benefit from the AFC program, or if you are interested in becoming a caregiver, contact us today to learn more.
-
Open PDF file, 97.76 KB, MassHealth Adult Foster Care (AFC) program fact sheet (English, PDF 97.76 KB)
Contact
Phone
Self-service available 24 hrs/day in English and Spanish. Other services available Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Interpreter services are available.
| Date published: | March 20, 2026 |
|---|