Adult Family Care Program/Shared Living

Inspiring Abilities Creating Limitless Possibilities

What Is Adult Family Care (AFC)?

Adult Family Care is a unique and meaningful program that enriches the lives of both the caregiver and the member receiving services. Becoming a caregiver is an opportunity to:

• Positively impact another person’s life by supporting a person who is unable to live independently due to a medical, physical, intellectual, or developmental disability
• Develop a strong caregiving relationship that has proven to be both successful
  and satisfying
• Build a long-lasting relationship in a family-like atmosphere
• Help the member in care have personal needs met, and become a productive member of the community

We at BFAIR respect and facilitate this extraordinary commitment. Caregivers do receive a tax-exempt monthly stipend for this role as well as a room and board
payment from the member’s benefits.

Why Choose Adult Family Care?

The BFAIR AFC program offers the support and care that is needed to meet each member’s unique and specific needs. Adult Family Care provides the member’s family with peace of mind that their loved one is getting the best care possible to live a fulfilling life while having all medical and behavioral needs met. Your AFC team can work to identify programs outside of the home that will benefit the member such as community groups, outreach activities, and day programs to expand the member’s experiences to involve peers and make friends.

Why Choose BFAIR?

BFAIR is a CARF accredited agency that strives to provide the absolute best care to all that we serve. Adult Family Care (AFC) is one of many care models that BFAIR supports.

AFC is unique:

• Care is provided in a caregiver’s private community residence versus a residential home
• Members are given the opportunity to lead a full life based on personal goals.
• Caregivers and members develop a strong and ongoing personal relationship.

We want to see both the member and the caregiver succeed within the AFC framework.

How Does It Work?

BFAIR provides training and education to caregivers, so they can deliver care in their home. Caregivers are always supported by their assigned AFC team which includes a Registered Nurse and a Case Manager with services such as:

• Careful screening and training as a caregiver
• Case management and service coordination
• Monthly visit from a Case Manager and RN to monitor medical conditions, evaluate caregiver services, and
  offer support

Support is available 24/7 and overnight respite is available for caregivers.

What is Shared Living?

Shared Living is a program that provides an individual with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to become part of a family, a household, and a community. Individuals in shared living gain greater independence and are productive members of their community. Individuals also have the support and build a companionship with someone who cares for them at home.

Testimonials

Testimonial from AFC Caregiver

“I love what I do! I have been a caregiver for 15 years. I have always had a passion in helping others. I have always worked in Human Services and when I learned of this new role that I could play in someone’s life, I jumped at the opportunity. It has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made. The ladies that I care for are part of my family and being a caregiver to them is a very rewarding experience.”
Kathy – AFC Caregiver

Testimonial from AFC Member

“I am so happy not to be in the nursing home anymore. I love my new home and my caregiver is an amazing cook. I am also grateful that my caregiver has always supported all the things that I enjoy doing. I get to do things that I would never be able to do if I were still at the nursing home. I am grateful for this program and BFAIR for helping me find a great caregiver.”
Carol – AFC member

Testimonial from Shared Living Provider

“ I have always found direct care work rewarding, helping to enrich an individual’s life and gain as much independence as possible is a great opportunity to make a difference!”
Carmen – Shared Living Provider

Testimonial from Shared Living Member

“I like the care that I receive from my caregivers. They give me all the attention that I want and need.”
Richard – Shared Living Member

Referrals

Any person can refer an adult over age 18 with Mass Health coverage for AFC services. Referrals come from public agencies, physicians, nursing homes, family members, and private parties. Screening visits can be arranged to determine if AFC criteria are met. Please contact the AFC Director at BFAIR 413-664-9382 if you know of a member who could benefit for support services or if you are interested in becoming a caregiver.