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Massachusetts Elder Care
Massachusetts has many elder care resources for senior residents who need public benefits, housing, health care, long-term care, or other types of assistance. A network of elder agencies offers support services to help Massachusetts elders remain independent in their homes. Protective services help Massachusetts elders who are being abused or neglected.
For more information about elder care resources in Massachusetts, click on the topics below:
Elder service agencies provide information, applications, direct services, and referrals for Massachusetts elders. These agencies help elders get home care, day care, health care, nutrition counseling, housekeeping services, transportation, protective services, and any other services that are needed. Calling one of these agencies is a good way to start if you want to find out what types of elder services are available in your community.
Massachusetts has many government and non-profit benefit programs to help elder residents. Some of these benefit programs are specifically for elders. Other benefit programs are not specifically for elders, but may have special rules or benefits for elders. Benefit programs that help elders living in Massachusetts include:
- SSI, EAEDC, and other cash assistance programs
- Food stamps, food pantries, Meals on Wheels, and other food and nutrition programs
- MassHealth, Medicare, Prescription Advantage, and other health care programs
- Home care assistance
- Fuel Assistance, Citizens Energy, Utility Shutoff protection, and other energy programs
- Rent vouchers, public housing, supportive housing, and other housing programs
- Paratransit, Elder Van, and other transportation services
- Social Security Retirement
The Social Security Retirement Program is a federal insurance program that provides retirement cash benefits for eligible workers and their families. Social Security benefits are based on retirement age and the worker's lifetime Social Security earnings. Social Security Retirement is not a need-based program.
Elders being abused by their caregivers or living alone in neglect can get protective services from their local ASAP or by calling the Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-922-2275.
Massachusetts elders who need support services but wish to live at home can get help from home care programs. Some home care programs also offer respite services to caregivers.
This section answers "How do I ...?" questions of interest to elders. Questions include "How do I get a health care proxy • make a living will • share my medical information (HIPAA) • get a power of attorney • qualify for senior discounts • get free banking • get a Mass ID card • get free tuition at public colleges • and others.
Links to other web sites with related information about elder care in Massachusetts.
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