Adult Family Care is a compassionate and supportive living arrangement that provides a nurturing environment for individuals who require assistance with their daily activities and personal care. It is an alternative to nursing homes and other institutional settings, offering individuals the opportunity to live in a home setting while receiving the care they need.
Adult Family Care, also known as Adult Foster Care, is a MassHealth program designed to cater to individuals who are unable to live independently due to physical or cognitive limitations. These limitations may arise from conditions such as aging, disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental health challenges, and require PCP approval with a supporting clinical diagnosis and required level of care. The primary goal of Adult Family Care is to promote the well-being, independence, and quality of life of these individuals while ensuring their safety and meeting their individual needs.
Within an Adult Family Care setting, individuals live with trained caregivers, most often family members, who provide round-the-clock support and supervision. Caregivers offer assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, ambulation, and transfers. Additionally, they create a nurturing environment that encourages social interaction, engagement, and emotional support.
One of the key advantages of Adult Family Care is the personalized attention and individualized care that clients receive. Compared to larger institutions, Family Care homes can tailor their caregiving to meet the unique needs and preferences of the individual. This personalized approach fosters a sense of belonging and community within the home, creating a supportive family atmosphere.
Adult Family Care homes accommodate a range of clients, including family members and friends, as well as non-related individuals. Any family member other than a spouse or parent can serve as a caregiver as long as they do not have legal authority over the client they are caring for.
All Family Care homes must adhere to state and local regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. Regular inspections help maintain standards of care and provide peace of mind to individuals and their families. WMEC’s Care Manager and nurses will visit with you monthly to provide monitoring and support.
For individuals seeking an alternative to institutional care, Adult Family Care offers a more intimate and personalized living arrangement. It promotes independence, dignity, and a sense of community, allowing adults to thrive in a caring and supportive environment. By combining essential care services with a warm and inclusive atmosphere, Adult Family Care strives to enhance the overall quality of life for those in need of assistance.
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WestMass ElderCare is a private, non-profit agency founded in 1974 which is funded in part by grants and contracts from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs. We are part of a network of Aging Services Access Points and Area Agencies on Aging.
WestMass ElderCare is a member of the Pioneer Valley Aging and Disabilities Resource Consortium.
