MassHealth Home Care: What Families Need to Know
July 5, 2026 • AbbottCare Home Care Agency
Many families in Massachusetts wonder what kind of home care support is available through **MassHealth** (Massachusetts Medicaid). Understanding what MassHealth covers can help you make informed decisions about your loved one’s care.
What Is MassHealth Home Care?
MassHealth provides coverage for certain home care services to eligible Massachusetts residents who meet income and clinical requirements. The goal is to help seniors and people with disabilities remain safely in their homes instead of moving to a nursing facility.
What Does MassHealth Cover?
MassHealth can cover the following home care services (when medically necessary and approved):
- Personal care assistance (help with bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility)
- Homemaker services (light housekeeping and meal preparation)
- Adult foster care
- Adult day health programs
- Some skilled nursing and therapy services
- Respite care (short-term relief for family caregivers)
Who Qualifies for MassHealth Home Care?
To receive MassHealth home care services, a person generally must:
- Be a Massachusetts resident
- Meet MassHealth income and asset limits
- Have a clinical need for home care services (determined through an assessment)
- Be at risk of nursing home placement without home care support
Important Things to Know
1. Not Everyone Qualifies
MassHealth has strict eligibility rules. Some families find that their loved one does not qualify, or only qualifies for limited hours.
2. There May Be Waitlists
Some MassHealth home care programs have limited funding and may have waitlists, especially for certain waiver programs.
3. Hours Are Often Limited
Even when approved, the number of hours provided through MassHealth is often lower than what many families need for full support.
4. Private Pay Can Fill the Gap
Many families use a combination of MassHealth services and **private pay home care** to get the level of support their loved one needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MassHealth pay for 24-hour home care?
Generally no. MassHealth typically provides limited hours per week and does not usually cover full-time or 24-hour care.
How do I apply for MassHealth home care?
You can apply through MassHealth or contact an Aging Service Access Point (ASAP) in your area. A clinical assessment will be done to determine eligibility and needs.
Can I use both MassHealth and private pay home care?
Yes. Many families combine MassHealth services with private pay care to get more hours or more consistent caregiver support.
What if my loved one doesn’t qualify for MassHealth?
Many families turn to private pay home care, long-term care insurance, or Veterans benefits when MassHealth is not an option.
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
At AbbottCare, we offer a free in-home assessment to help you understand what kind of care your loved one needs and what your options are — whether through MassHealth, private pay, or a combination of both.
We’re happy to answer your questions and support you in making the best decision for your family.