FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Adult Foster Care (AFC) FAQs
What is Adult Foster Care (AFC)?
Adult Foster Care provides daily support and personal care to adults who cannot live independently due to age, illness, or disability. The individual lives in the caregiver’s home and receives help with meals, medication reminders, hygiene, and daily activities.
Who can qualify for AFC services?
To qualify, individuals must be at least 16 years old, require assistance with personal care, and be eligible for MassHealth or other qualifying programs. A healthcare professional must confirm the need for daily support.
Where does the person receiving care live?
In AFC, the participant lives in the home of a qualified caregiver who provides both room and board along with personal care and supervision.
Who provides the care?
A trained caregiver, often a family member or a professional approved by the agency, provides daily care. Nurses and care managers from the agency visit regularly to monitor the person’s well-being and ensure quality of care.
What types of help does AFC include?
AFC includes assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, mobility, taking medications, and meal preparation. Emotional support and companionship are also key parts of the program.
What are the benefits of AFC compared to nursing homes or institutions?
AFC offers a more personal, home-like environment with one-on-one attention, allowing participants to maintain comfort, independence, and a sense of family while receiving professional oversight.
Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) FAQs
How does Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) differ from Adult Foster Care (AFC)?
Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) caters to eligible individuals living in their own homes, with care provided by professional staff hired through agencies like Vine Home Healthcare. On the contrary, Adult Foster Care (AFC) is provided to individuals residing with a caregiver, who delivers daily care alongside residential services. The caregiver’s work is overseen by professional staff such as nurses and care managers hired by the agency.
Can I receive GAFC services if I'm already receiving home care through a Visiting Nurse Association (VNA)?
Yes, as long as there is no overlap in services. For instance, if you’re receiving skilled services through a VNA but not home health aide services, you may be eligible for GAFC. If your VNA is already providing home health aide services, GAFC wouldn’t be an option, as that would be considered duplication of services.
Can family members deliver care to their relatives under GAFC?
No, family members are not allowed to provide care to their relatives under GAFC. Professional staff like nurses and case managers are not restricted from caring for family members.
How can I find out if I qualify for GAFC services?
You can review the eligibility criteria outlined in this document, or you can reach out to your health insurance provider to ask if GAFC services are covered under your plan.
How much service can an individual receive under the GAFC program?
Under the GAFC program, an individual can receive 1-2 hours of home health aid per day. Additionally, a nurse or case manager will make monthly visits for continuous assessment.
Are there specific housing requirements to qualify for GAFC services?
No, there are no specific residential qualifications to be eligible for GAFC services. Prior to 2020, there were housing requirements, but these were eliminated during the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes were made permanent.