In-home supports are vital services designed to help individuals maintain their independence and quality of life within the comfort of their own homes and communities. These programs offer a range of assistance, from personal care to help with household tasks like housekeeping, grocery shopping, and meal preparation. For residents of Massachusetts seeking support, understanding the available options is the first step towards accessing the right care.
Understanding the State Home Care Program in Massachusetts
The State Home Care Program in Massachusetts is a cornerstone of support for older adults and younger individuals facing specific health challenges. This program is specifically designed to enable older adults, aged 60 and over, and those under 60 diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions, to continue living at home within their communities. It’s a crucial resource for individuals who may not qualify for MassHealth but still require assistance with the tasks of daily living. Depending on income levels, participants may be subject to monthly co-payments. The Executive Office of Aging & Independence administers the State Home Care Program, with services delivered through Aging Services Access Points across the state.
MassHealth Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
For individuals eligible for MassHealth who require a level of care typically provided in a facility setting, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers offer an alternative. These waivers enable access to essential services and supports that facilitate successful community living. Participants in HCBS Waiver programs benefit from MassHealth services in addition to the specific services provided under their enrolled waiver. It’s important to note that enrollment is limited to one HCBS Waiver at a time. Each of the ten MassHealth HCBS Waivers has distinct financial and clinical eligibility criteria.
Moving Forward Plan: Residential Supports (MFP-RS) Waiver
The Moving Forward Plan-Residential Supports (MFP-RS) Waiver is tailored to assist MassHealth-eligible adults transitioning from institutional settings, such as nursing facilities or hospitals, back into community living. This HCBS waiver program is designed for individuals requiring 24/7 supervision and staff support within a residential environment. Residential support services under this waiver can include living in settings like group homes, assisted living residences, or shared living arrangements with around-the-clock support. The Department of Developmental Services operates the MFP-RS Waiver, which is available to adults aged 18 and older, with no upper age limit.
HCBS Waivers for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Massachusetts offers several HCBS Waivers specifically designed to support adults with intellectual disabilities, enabling them to live fulfilling lives within their communities.
Adult Supports Waiver
The Adult Supports Waiver provides community-based services and supports for MassHealth-eligible adults with intellectual disabilities who do not require 24-hour care. This waiver is suitable for individuals living in family homes, adult foster care settings, or independently, whose health and welfare needs can be effectively met within these community environments. The Adult Supports Waiver, administered by the Department of Developmental Services, serves adults aged 22 and older without a maximum age limit.
Community Living Waiver
For MassHealth-eligible adults with intellectual disabilities who need a higher level of support than the Adult Supports Waiver but less than the Intensive Supports Waiver, the Community Living Waiver is available. This program supports individuals living in various settings, including family homes, adult foster care, with live-in caregivers, or independently, who do not require continuous 24-hour care. The Department of Developmental Services manages the Community Living Waiver, serving adults aged 22 and older with no maximum age restriction.
Intensive Supports Waiver
The Intensive Supports Waiver is designed for MassHealth-eligible adults with intellectual disabilities who require continuous supervision and 24/7 access to support. Participants in this program may reside in out-of-home residential settings or their family homes, benefiting from a comprehensive range of supports. Operated by the Department of Developmental Services, the Intensive Supports Waiver is available to adults aged 22 and older, with no upper age limit.
Children’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Waiver
For younger residents, the Children’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Waiver provides critical early intervention services. This HCBS waiver program delivers one-on-one behavioral, social, and communication-based interventions, along with related support services, to MassHealth-eligible children from birth through age eight who have autism. The Department of Developmental Services administers the Children’s Autism Waiver. Further details can be found at DDS Autism Waiver Service Program Overview.
Frail Elder Waiver
The Frail Elder Waiver is an essential home care assistance program in Massachusetts for MassHealth-eligible adults aged 60 and older. It enables individuals who meet the criteria for nursing facility care to receive health care and support services within their own homes. The program focuses on assisting older adults with self-care and everyday tasks, promoting independent living within the community. The Executive Office of Aging and Independence operates the Frail Elder Waiver (FEW). Participants aged 65 or older can opt to enroll in the Senior Care Options (SCO) program, integrating their Waiver services and Medicare services, if applicable, through a single SCO plan. This waiver serves adults aged 60 and older without a maximum age limit.
Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver
The Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver offers community-based services to MassHealth-eligible individuals with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) who would otherwise require nursing facility or hospital care. This HCBS waiver program provides the necessary support services for individuals with TBI to live safely and independently in their communities. MassAbility operates the TBI Waiver, which is available to adults aged 18 and older, with no maximum age limit.
In-Home Treatment for Children and Adolescents
Beyond waivers, Massachusetts also provides in-home treatment for children and adolescents facing mental health conditions. These services are comprehensive, encompassing case management, individual and family flexible support, residential programs, day programs, respite care, and intensive residential treatment. The Department of Mental Health’s (DMH) Division of Child, Youth and Family Services oversees these in-home treatment options, ensuring that Massachusetts youth and their families receive the mental health support they need. DMH collaborates with providers and health plans to facilitate access to these crucial services.
Statewide Head Injury Program (SHIP)
The Statewide Head Injury Program (SHIP) offers customized supports for individuals of all ages in Massachusetts who have experienced a traumatic brain injury. SHIP services include service coordination, regional service centers, assistive technology, recreation programs, substance abuse treatment, and various community-based supports. MassAbility administers SHIP, ensuring comprehensive assistance for those with TBI.
Home Care Assistance Program (Under 60)
Specifically for younger adults, the Home Care Assistance Program provides homemaker services to adults under the age of 60 with disabilities. These services include essential household tasks such as housekeeping, laundry, grocery shopping, and meal support. MassAbility manages this program, addressing the unique needs of younger individuals requiring home care assistance.
Veteran’s Independence Plus Program (VIP)
The Veteran’s Independence Plus Program (VIP) is dedicated to supporting veterans of all ages in Massachusetts who are at risk of nursing home placement, along with their family caregivers. VIP provides home and community-based services, enabling veterans to continue living in their homes and communities. Eligible veterans benefit from comprehensive assessments, personalized service plans, and the ability to purchase goods and services that best meet their individual needs. The Executive Office of Aging & Independence and the Department of Veterans’ Services jointly administer VIP.
Community Life Services
Community Life Services encompass a broad spectrum of services and resources aimed at fostering independent living within the community. These programs empower individuals to live independently and address secondary functional needs through transportation services, technology, and peer supports.
Adult Supported Living Services
Adult Supported Living Services are specifically designed for individuals with severe physical disabilities in Massachusetts. This program offers a range of services and case management to facilitate community living. MassAbility provides this program to ensure that individuals with significant physical challenges receive the support needed to live independently.
Assistive Technology Programs
Massachusetts boasts several Assistive Technology Programs designed to empower individuals with disabilities of all ages.
Assistive Technology Program (General)
The general Assistive Technology Program provides access to devices and services that enhance independence and control over one’s environment. This program, managed by MassAbility, helps individuals perform daily tasks, improve mobility, and communicate more effectively through technology.
Assistive Technology for the Blind Program
For individuals who are blind, the Assistive Technology for the Blind Program offers specialized technology options. Available through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, this program assists people of all ages in accessing print materials, enhancing daily function, improving mobility, and facilitating communication.
Programs through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB)
The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) offers a range of specialized programs to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Blind Reintegration for Independence, Development, and Growth for Elders (BRIDGE) Program
The BRIDGE Program focuses on providing independent living services to individuals aged 55 and older who are legally blind. This program, offered by the MCB, promotes independence and enhances quality of life for older adults with vision loss.
Children’s Services Program (MCB)
The Children’s Services Program by the MCB assists families with children who are blind or visually impaired. The program provides essential information and referrals to services and resources that help children reach their full potential.
Deaf Blind Extended Supports
Deaf Blind Extended Supports by the MCB offers a wide array of services to individuals who are deafblind or legally blind with cognitive issues. The program’s goal is to enhance independence and overall quality of life for these individuals.
Independent Living Social Services (MCB)
Independent Living Social Services through the MCB directly assist individuals who are blind in becoming more independent and improving their quality of life through tailored support services.
Community and Support Programs
Massachusetts offers a variety of community-based programs to enhance well-being and access to resources.
Clubhouse Services
Clubhouse Services are programs designed to support individuals with mental health needs in developing essential life skills. These skills include social networking, independent living, budgeting, transportation access, self-care, educational goal attainment, and employment security. Funded in part by the Department of Mental Health, Clubhouses help individuals lead productive and stable lives within their communities.
Councils on Aging (COA)
Councils on Aging (COA) serve as community focal points for social and support services for older adults, families, and caregivers across 349 cities and towns in Massachusetts. COAs offer numerous programs, including congregate and home-delivered meals. The Massachusetts COA Directory can help locate local COAs.
Community Health and Prevention Programs
Community Health and Prevention Programs offered by the Department of Public Health include chronic disease self-management programs, healthy aging initiatives, and health access improvements. These programs aim to reduce health disparities and promote the role of Community Health Workers. Current program offerings can be found at the Healthy Living Center of Excellence.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness initiatives provide training and support to individuals and health systems in preparing for emergency situations, specifically focusing on supporting individuals with disabilities. The Department of Public Health offers Emergency Preparedness assistance.
Home Modification Loan Program
The Home Modification Loan Program provides no- and low-interest loans to modify homes for adults, children with disabilities, and older adults. This program enables individuals to remain in their homes and live more independently. MassAbility administers the Home Modification Loan Program.
Independent Living Center (ILC) Services
Independent Living Center (ILC) Services are delivered by private, nonprofit, community-based organizations run and controlled by individuals with disabilities. ILCs offer support, role modeling, and advocacy for persons with all types of disabilities.
Independent Living Programs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People (DHILS)
Independent Living Programs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people (DHILS) provide crucial peer mentoring, self-advocacy training, information and referral services, and training on assistive technology, communication skills, and job seeking for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Information and Referral Services
Information and Referral specialists are available to connect individuals with services and supports in their communities. Assistance is accessible through the Executive Office of Aging & Independence via MassOptions.org (800-243-4636), the Department of Mental Health, and Aging and Disability Resource Consortia (ADRCs).
Interpreter/CART Services
Interpreter/CART Services by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) offer referral services for various interpreting needs, including American Sign Language and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) for real-time captioning.
Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP)
The Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP) is a statewide association of 24 Community Action Agencies (CAAs) dedicated to fighting poverty and promoting self-sufficiency through human services and advocacy.
Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD)
The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) aims to ensure full and equal participation for people with disabilities. MOD offers training, advocacy, disability rights monitoring, and information on government programs.
Massachusetts PCA Referral Directory
The Massachusetts PCA Referral Directory is an online registry connecting individuals who need and provide personal care assistance (PCA). Sponsored by the Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Quality Home Care Workforce Council, it assists older adults and residents with disabilities in hiring PCAs.
MassHealth Disability Accommodation Ombudsman
The MassHealth Disability Accommodation Ombudsman assists MassHealth members and applicants with disabilities in obtaining necessary accommodations for effective communication with MassHealth.
My Ombudsman
My Ombudsman is an independent program aiding MassHealth members enrolled in managed and integrated care plans. They help members understand benefits, resolve access issues, and explain member rights. Contact My Ombudsman at 855-781-9898 or via Videophone (VP) at 339-224-6831.
Options Counseling
Options Counseling offers free, short-term assistance in exploring available options and resources. Options Counselors can help individuals and their families plan for current and future needs.
Outreach Centers for Veterans
Outreach Centers for Veterans are nonprofit organizations providing services such as benefits assistance, transportation, counseling, and peer support to veterans and their families. The Department of Veterans’ Services administers these centers.
Turning 22
Turning 22 provides transition services for young people with severe disabilities as they move from special education into the adult service system, coordinated by MassAbility and the Department of Developmental Services.
Universal Access Program
The Universal Access Program by the Department of Conservation and Recreation increases accessibility in Massachusetts State Parks through site improvements, adaptive equipment, and inclusive events.
Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO)
Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs) are located in 351 municipalities across Massachusetts to assist veterans and their families in accessing benefits. VSOs can be found at City/Town Halls or through the VSO Directory and Mass Vets Advisor.
Conclusion
Massachusetts offers a robust network of home care assistance programs and support services designed to meet the diverse needs of its residents. From state-funded initiatives like the State Home Care Program and Frail Elder Waiver to specialized programs for veterans, individuals with disabilities, and children with autism, resources are available to help people live independently and with dignity in their communities. Exploring these programs and reaching out to the administering agencies or support organizations is the crucial next step for anyone seeking home care assistance in Massachusetts.
