In-Home Supports encompass a range of services designed to assist individuals within their own homes and communities. These vital services can include help with personal care, housekeeping tasks, grocery shopping, and meal preparation, aiming to enhance independence and quality of life.
Understanding the State Home Care Program
The State Home Care Program in Massachusetts offers crucial support services to older adults who require assistance with daily living activities. This program is specifically designed to enable seniors to remain living comfortably and safely in their own communities. Eligibility extends to individuals aged 60 and over, as well as those under 60 diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or related conditions. Importantly, the State Home Care Program also serves individuals who may not qualify for MassHealth but still need varying degrees of support with everyday tasks. It’s worth noting that monthly co-payments may be applicable depending on an individual’s income. The administration of the State Home Care Program is overseen by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence, with service delivery managed by Aging Services Access Points across the state.
Exploring 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, MassHealth Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers offer an invaluable alternative. These waivers, often referred to as Masshealth Home Care Programs, are designed to provide access to the necessary services and supports that empower individuals to live successfully within their communities. Participants enrolled in HCBS waivers not only retain access to standard MassHealth services but also benefit from additional services specifically tailored through their chosen waiver program. It is important to note that individuals can only be enrolled in one HCBS waiver at any given time. Each of the ten distinct MassHealth HCBS waivers has specific financial and clinical eligibility criteria that applicants must meet.
One key example of these MassHealth home care programs is the Moving Forward Plan.
Moving Forward Plan: Residential Supports (MFP-RS) Waiver
The Residential Supports (MFP-RS) Waiver is a MassHealth home care program that facilitates the transition back to community living for MassHealth-eligible adults. This waiver is specifically for those currently residing in nursing facilities or chronic disease, rehabilitation, or psychiatric hospitals. The MFP-RS Waiver provides access to comprehensive community-based services, ensuring a smooth and supported return. This program is particularly beneficial for individuals requiring 24/7 supervision and staff support within a residential environment. Residential support services under this waiver can encompass various living arrangements, including group homes, assisted living residences, or shared living arrangements with round-the-clock support. The Department of Developmental Services administers the MFP-RS Waiver, which is available to adults aged 18 and older, with no upper age limit.
MassHealth HCBS Waivers for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
MassHealth also provides specific home care programs via HCBS waivers tailored for adults with intellectual disabilities, catering to varying levels of support needs.
Adult Supports Waiver
The Adult Supports Waiver is a MassHealth home care program providing community-based services and supports to MassHealth-eligible adults with intellectual disabilities. Participants in this waiver typically live in family homes, adult foster care settings, or independently and do not require 24-hour care. This waiver is designed for individuals whose health and welfare needs can be effectively met within these community settings, and who do not require the more intensive levels of support offered by the Community Living Waiver or the Intensive Supports Waiver. The Department of Developmental Services oversees the Adult Supports Waiver, which is available to adults aged 22 and older without a maximum age limit.
Community Living Waiver
The Community Living Waiver represents another crucial MassHealth home care program for adults with intellectual disabilities. It delivers community-based services and supports to MassHealth-eligible individuals who require more support than those in the Adult Supports Waiver but less than those in the Intensive Supports Waiver. Participants may reside in family homes, adult foster care, with live-in caregivers, or independently, but do not require 24-hour care. The Community Living Waiver is also administered by the Department of Developmental Services and serves adults aged 22 and older, with no maximum age restriction.
Intensive Supports Waiver
For adults with intellectual disabilities who require substantial support, the Intensive Supports Waiver offers a MassHealth home care program designed to meet complex needs. This waiver provides community-based services and supports to MassHealth-eligible adults who need supervision and access to support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Participants may live in out-of-home residential settings or within their family homes, receiving a comprehensive array of supports. The Intensive Supports Waiver is managed by the Department of Developmental Services and is available to adults aged 22 and older, with no maximum age limit.
Children’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Waiver
This HCBS Waiver program is a MassHealth home care program specifically for children with autism spectrum disorders. It provides one-on-one behavioral, social, and communication-based interventions, along with related support services, to MassHealth-eligible children from birth through age eight. Known as the Children’s Autism Waiver, it is administered by the Department of Developmental Services. More details can be found at www.mass.gov/service-details/dds-autism-waiver-service-program-overview.
Frail Elder Waiver
The Frail Elder Waiver is a vital MassHealth home care program assisting MassHealth-eligible adults aged 60 and older to receive essential health care and support services within their own homes. This waiver is designed for individuals who meet the criteria for nursing facility care but prefer to maintain their independence and live in the community. The program provides older adults with services to aid with self-care and everyday tasks, promoting dignity and comfort in their familiar surroundings. The Executive Office of Aging and Independence operates the Frail Elder Waiver (FEW). Participants aged 65 or older enrolled in the Frail Elder Waiver have the option to enroll in the Senior Care Options (SCO) program. SCO allows for integrated service delivery, combining Waiver services and Medicare services (if applicable) through a single SCO plan. The Frail Elder Waiver is available to adults aged 60 and older, with no maximum age limit.
Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver
For individuals with traumatic brain injuries, the Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver serves as a MassHealth home care program providing crucial community services. This waiver is for MassHealth-eligible individuals with a traumatic brain injury who meet the criteria for nursing facility or hospital care but desire to live in the community. The program offers the necessary support services to enable individuals with traumatic brain injuries to live safely and with dignity within 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 specific waivers, Massachusetts offers broader in-home treatment options for younger populations. In-home treatment for children and adolescents encompasses a wide spectrum of services, including case management, individualized and flexible family support, residential programs, day programs, respite care, and intensive residential treatment. These vital in-home treatment services are accessible to children and adolescents with mental health conditions through the Department of Mental Health.
The Department of Mental Health’s (DMH) Division of Child, Youth and Family Services is dedicated to providing a variety of supports to Massachusetts youth experiencing mental illness and their families. DMH collaborates with providers and health plans across the state to ensure individuals in Massachusetts receive the mental health care they need. For more information, visit DMH.
Statewide Head Injury Program (SHIP)
The Statewide Head Injury Program (SHIP) provides customized supports for individuals of all ages who have experienced a traumatic brain injury. SHIP services include service coordination, regional service centers, assistive technology resources, recreation programs, substance abuse treatment, and various community-based supports. SHIP is a program managed by MassAbility, ensuring comprehensive assistance for those affected by traumatic brain injuries.
Home Care Assistance Program
The Home Care Assistance Program is specifically designed for adults under the age of 60 with disabilities. This program provides homemaker services, including essential tasks such as housekeeping, laundry, grocery shopping, and meal support. The Home Care Assistance Program is also a program of MassAbility, focusing on enabling younger adults with disabilities to manage their households and maintain independence.
Veteran’s Independence Plus Program (VIP)
The Veteran’s Independence Plus Program (VIP) is dedicated to supporting veterans of all ages who are at risk of nursing home placement, along with their family caregivers. VIP provides home and community-based services to enable veterans to continue living in their homes and communities. Eligible veterans receive a comprehensive assessment and develop a personalized service plan, allowing them to purchase goods and services that best meet their individual needs. VIP is a collaborative effort, jointly administered by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence and the Department of Veterans’ Services, highlighting the commitment to veteran care.
Community Life Services
Community Life services encompass a broad range of services and resources aimed at supporting independent living within the community. These programs offer diverse services designed to empower individuals to live independently and address secondary functional needs. Examples include transportation services, technology assistance, and peer support networks, all contributing to a more integrated and independent community life.
Adult Supported Living Services
Adult Supported Living Services is a specialized program for individuals with severe physical disabilities. This program delivers a range of services and comprehensive case management to support individuals in living within their communities. Adult Supported Living Services are available through MassAbility, ensuring targeted support for those with significant physical challenges.
Assistive Technology Program
The Assistive Technology Program aims to provide individuals with disabilities of all ages with access to devices and services that enhance their control over their environment and support the achievement of their personal goals. Technology plays a crucial role in enabling individuals to perform daily tasks, improve mobility, and communicate more effectively. This program is also managed by MassAbility, focusing on technological solutions for greater independence.
Assistive Technology for the Blind Program
The Assistive Technology for the Blind Program is specifically tailored to provide people of all ages who are blind with assistive technology options. These technologies are designed to improve access to print material, enhance daily function, increase mobility, and improve communication. The Technology for the Blind Program is available through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, highlighting specialized support for the visually impaired.
BRIDGE Program
The Blind Reintegration for Independence, Development, and Growth for Elders (BRIDGE) Program provides independent living services to individuals aged 55 and older who are legally blind. This program, known as BRIDGE, is available through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and focuses on enabling older adults with vision loss to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Children’s Services Program
The Children’s Services Program is dedicated to assisting families with children who are blind or visually impaired. The program provides valuable information and referrals to services and resources that can support the child in reaching their full potential. The Children’s Services Program is offered through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, ensuring early intervention and support for visually impaired children and their families.
Clubhouse Services
Clubhouse Services are programs designed to provide individuals with mental health needs with essential support services. Clubhouses help individuals develop crucial skills in social networking, independent living, budgeting, accessing transportation, self-care, pursuing educational goals, and securing and maintaining employment. Clubhouses play a vital role in helping individuals lead productive and stable lives within their communities. They are partially funded by the Department of Mental Health, reflecting a commitment to community-based mental health support.
Councils on Aging (COA)
Councils on Aging (COA) serve as the central community point for social and support services for older adults, their families, and caregivers across 349 cities and towns in Massachusetts. COAs offer a wide range of programs, including congregate and home-delivered meals, vital for senior well-being. The Massachusetts COA Directory can help individuals find their local COA, ensuring access to local resources.
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 programs, and health access initiatives. These programs aim to reduce health disparities and promote the effective use of Community Health Workers. Current program offerings can be explored at the Healthy Living Center of Excellence.
Deaf Blind Extended Supports
Deaf Blind Extended Supports provide a comprehensive array of services to people who are deafblind and/or legally blind with cognitive issues. The primary goal of these supports is to enhance each person’s independence and overall quality of life. Deaf Blind Extended Supports are available through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, addressing the unique needs of this population.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness initiatives include essential training and support to individuals and health systems. These resources focus on preparing to effectively support individuals with disabilities during emergency situations. Emergency Preparedness assistance is provided by the Department of Public Health, ensuring safety and support during crises.
Home Modification Loan Program
The Home Modification Loan Program offers no- and low-interest loans to facilitate home modifications. These loans assist adults, children with disabilities, and older adults in adapting their homes to allow for greater independence and the ability to remain in their homes. The Home Modification Loan Program is a program of MassAbility, helping to create accessible and supportive home environments.
Independent Living Center (ILC) Services
Independent Living Center (ILC) Services encompass support, role modeling, and advocacy by and for persons with all types of disabilities. These crucial services are delivered by ILCs, which are private, nonprofit, community-based organizations run and controlled by persons with disabilities themselves. ILCs are key resources for fostering independence and self-determination.
Independent Living Programs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people (DHILS)
Independent Living Programs for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people (DHILS) provide vital peer mentoring for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. DHILS also offers self-advocacy training, information and referral services, and training on essential topics such as assistive technology, communication skills, and job seeking strategies.
Independent Living Social Services
Independent Living Social Services are specifically designed to assist individuals who are blind in becoming more independent and achieving an improved quality of life. These essential services are provided by the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, ensuring tailored support for visually impaired individuals.
Information and Referral
Information and Referral specialists are readily available to connect individuals with the services and supports they need within their communities. These specialists offer personalized assistance focused on individual needs and interests. Services are accessible through the Executive Office of Aging & Independence via Massoptions.org (800-243-4636), the Department of Mental Health, and the Aging and Disability Resource Consortia (ADRC). ADRCs are trusted statewide resources providing information and referrals for long-term services and supports to people of all ages, disabilities, and income levels.
Interpreter/CART Services
Interpreter/CART Services offers referral services for a range of interpreting needs, including American Sign Language, spoken English, oral, tactile, and close vision interpreting for people who are Deaf and Deaf-Blind. The program also provides referrals to freelance Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) providers for real-time captioning. CART services are invaluable for hard of hearing and late-deafened individuals in various settings such as medical, legal, mental health, employment, education, and recreational situations. Interpreter and CART Referral Services are accessible through the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP)
The Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP) is a statewide association representing the 24 Community Action Agencies (CAAs) operating across Massachusetts. CAAs are dedicated human service and advocacy organizations committed to combating poverty and promoting self-sufficiency throughout the state.
Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD)
The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) is dedicated to ensuring the full and equal participation of all people with disabilities in every aspect of life. MOD offers vital training services, advocacy on a wide range of disability-related issues, monitoring compliance with disability rights laws, and additional resources such as information on government programs.
Massachusetts PCA Referral Directory
The Massachusetts PCA Referral Directory is a valuable online registry connecting individuals who need personal care assistance with those who provide it. The PCA referral directory is designed to assist Massachusetts older adults, residents of all ages with disabilities, their families, and parents of children with disabilities in hiring their own Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) or direct care workers. The Massachusetts referral directory is sponsored by the Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Quality Home Care Workforce Council.
MassHealth Disability Accommodation Ombudsman
The MassHealth Disability Accommodation Ombudsman is a crucial resource helping MassHealth members and applicants with disabilities. The Ombudsman ensures individuals receive the necessary accommodations for effective communication with MassHealth, promoting equitable access to healthcare services.
My Ombudsman
My Ombudsman is an independent program specifically for MassHealth members enrolled in MassHealth managed and integrated care plans. My Ombudsman provides essential support by helping enrolled members understand their benefits and services, answering questions and addressing concerns, mediating to resolve difficulties in accessing benefits, and explaining member rights, including appeal and grievance processes. Many My Ombudsman staff members have personal lived experience with disability and MassHealth, offering unique empathy and understanding. Contact My Ombudsman by phone at 855-781-9898, Videophone (VP) at 339-224-6831, email at: [email protected], or visit their website for more information at: https://myombudsman.org/.
Options Counseling
Options Counseling is a free, short-term service designed to assist individuals and their loved ones in exploring available options and resources. An Options Counselor can provide personalized meetings or consultations to help address current needs or plan for future care and support requirements.
Outreach Centers
Outreach Centers for Veterans are nonprofit organizations dedicated to assisting veterans and their families with a broad spectrum of services. These services include help obtaining benefits, transportation assistance, substance abuse counseling, and peer counseling. Outreach Centers are administered by the Department of Veterans’ Services, ensuring comprehensive support for the veteran community.
Turning 22
Turning 22 is a critical program providing transition services for young people with severe disabilities as they transition out of special education and into the adult service system. Turning 22 services are available through MassAbility and the Department of Developmental Services, ensuring a smoother transition to adult services.
Universal Access Program
The Universal Access Program is an initiative of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. This program is focused on increasing the accessibility of Massachusetts State Parks through site improvements, provision of adaptive equipment, and inclusive events, making parks accessible for all residents.
Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO)
Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs) are located in 351 municipalities across Massachusetts, serving as vital local resources for veterans and their families. VSOs assist in connecting veterans with benefits and services. VSOs are available to anyone seeking information or assistance regarding veterans’ benefits, including family members. They interview applicants, determine eligibility, and administer veterans’ benefits. VSOs can be reached at their City/Town Halls, via the VSO Directory, or through the VSO locator at Mass Vets Advisor, ensuring local access to veteran support.
