How to apply for Family Caregiver Support Program — Massachusetts

Who it's for

Massachusetts' Family Caregiver Support Program is free for unpaid caregivers 18 and older who care for someone 60 or older, or anyone living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. It also supports grandparents and relatives 55+ raising children or caring for adults with disabilities. Caregiver specialists at the regional ASAP offer counseling, training, support groups, workshops, and respite care. Call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636.

What you'll need

• A description of the caregiving situation and the help needed

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Family Caregiver Support Program — Massachusetts. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need a description of the caregiving situation and the help needed — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the basic eligibility: you are an unpaid caregiver 18 or older caring for someone 60 or older, or for anyone living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. Grandparents and relatives 55 or older raising children or caring for adults with disabilities may also qualify.
2. Prepare a brief description of your caregiving situation and the type of help you are looking for. This is the key information you will need to share when you apply.
3. Apply online or by phone. To apply by phone, call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636. A representative can help you connect with your regional Aging Services Access Point.
4. Speak with a caregiver specialist at your regional Aging Services Access Point. They will review your caregiving situation and discuss what services may be available to you.
5. Complete any follow-up steps the caregiver specialist requests to finalize your enrollment and arrange services.

What to expect: After you apply, your regional Aging Services Access Point will review your caregiving situation and connect you with a caregiver specialist. Services such as counseling, training, support groups, workshops, and respite care are arranged based on your specific situation and available funding — so the services offered may vary. Because this program supports the unpaid caregiver rather than the person being cared for, it appears as a "may qualify" result. Enrollment is renewed annually, so expect to check in with your Aging Services Access Point each year to continue receiving services. Processing times vary, so ask your caregiver specialist for an estimate when you apply.

Renewals

annual