Understanding Your Care Options in Massachusetts
AFC vs GAFC in Massachusetts:
What’s the Difference?
Wells Health Care offers two MassHealth programs — Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) — designed to help eligible individuals remain safely at home or in qualified housing. While both programs provide daily personal care and supervision, they differ in caregiver structure, housing requirements, age eligibility, and program guidelines.
Explore the key differences below to determine which program may be right for you.
Both programs are funded by MassHealth and require clinical eligibility. The key differences involve caregiver arrangement, housing requirements, and minimum age criteria.
| Feature | AFC | GAFC |
|---|---|---|
| Caregiver Type | Family Member or Friend | Agency-Based Professional Caregiver |
| Caregiver Resides in the Same Home? |
Often yes (family caregiver model)
|
No (services provided in qualified housing)
|
| Minimum Age Requirement | 16+ | 22+ |
| Housing Requirement | Private Home | Qualified Senior or Subsidized Housing |
| Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) | ||
| Family Caregiver Receives Monthly Stipend? |
Eligible family caregiver may receive a stipend
|
|
| Clinical Oversight & Care Coordination |
Eligibility and services are determined through clinical assessment and MassHealth guidelines. Program details may vary based on individual needs and housing qualification.
Still Not Sure Which Program Is Right for You?
Speak with our care team to review eligibility and determine
the most appropriate program for your situation
. Assistance is available in English,
Spanish, and Twi.
