Everything You Need to Know About Group Adult Foster Care Programs

Curious about Group Adult Foster Care Programs (GAFC) and what they are all about? Here’s everything you and your loved one need to know before choosing a service.

What is a Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) Program?

Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) is a MassHealth program that provides clients with daily personal care services. This could include things like personal hygiene and housekeeping. These services are provided to eligible seniors and chronically disabled adults age 22 and above living in community apartment buildings.

What makes a Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) different from an Adult Foster Care (AFC) Program?

Caregivers in a Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) Program visit the client for one hour out of the day, seven days a week, whereas with an Adult Foster (AFC) Program the caregiver provides 24-hour, live-in care to the client.

Why would a client opt for GAFC program rather than AFC program?

GAFC programs are great for individuals who can still maintain their day-to-day lifestyle and routine but are looking for that little extra support in their day—someone who can check in with them and give them that small bit of care and attention they need. AFC programs work best for those who are in need of 24/7 support throughout their day in order to maintain their health and wellness.

What sort of services does a GAFC program provide?

GAFC programs provide a wide variety of care to clients—from personal care to laundry, grocery shopping, and meal preparation, even medication cueing, transportation coordination, case management, and total wellness nursing visits.

Why is a GAFC program a better option than a nursing home or long-term hospital care?

A GAFC gives clients the freedom to live their lives in their own homes and still maintain their quality of life without much interference. Caregivers in a GAFC program are providing support rather than full-time care, giving clients the opportunity to receive the help where they see fit in their day. Clients never have to leave their homes. They have the comfort of being in their own home without having their day-to-day routine disrupted while the caregiver provides the support they need in the background.

What are some other benefits that GAFC programs have given to clients?

Group Adult Foster Care Programs give clients a feeling of freedom, as opposed to a nursing home or hospital stay. They can go about their daily routines and still enjoy the life they built for themselves. Caregivers in a Group Adult Foster Care Program almost act as a friend or neighbor. The Caregiver provides that little added boost to the client’s day, engaging in a light-hearted conversation, running out for that one grocery item the client may have forgotten or poping in a load of laundry before they head out. Clients can enjoy their day knowing they will get a little rest and support when a Caregiver arrives.

What sort of client would benefit the most from a GAFC program?

Clients that would benefit most from a GAFC program are those who can still manage their day-to-day routine on their own and do not require any medical assistance.

Are GAFC programs safe and reliable?

All GAFC programs are directly managed and approved by state insurance and must follow strict requirements and guidelines from the state. GAFC programs will also work with accredited companies to ensure all healthcare laws are met and in compliance.

Who are the Caregivers in an of a GAFC program and how are these caregivers trained/qualified?

Caregivers are mandated by the state to meet certain requirements, which includes eight hours of initial training provided by a GAFC admission team.

What sets MetroCare of Springfield’s GAFC program apart from competitors?

Clients who put their trust in MetroCare of Springfield’s Group Adult Foster Care Program can expect quality care from highly trained caregivers who are dedicated to ensuring care is given to clients in a nonintrusive, personalized way in order for clients to have the freedom and support they need in their day-to-day lives.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about MetroCare of Springfield’s GAFC program and other services, call us directly at 413-729-4499, send us an email at info@metrocarespringfield.com, or fill out a quick form on our website here.