Assisted living in Massachusetts: how it is licensed.
Who licenses assisted living in Massachusetts, and what to check before you choose.
What Massachusetts calls it
In Massachusetts, assisted living is licensed under the term “Assisted Living Residence (certified rather than licensed)”. Other states use different names, so it helps to know the exact term when you search.
Who licenses and inspects
Executive Office of Elder Affairs (Executive Office of Aging & Independence) is the agency that licenses these communities. It is the official place to check a community’s license and inspection history.
Memory care
Massachusetts certifies Special Care Residences that offer enhanced supports for residents with cognitive or other specialized needs.
Paying for care
Medicare generally does not cover long term custodial care.
MassHealth's Frail Elder Waiver may help MassHealth members aged 60 and older who could otherwise need facility care. The state page does not mention assisted living residences, and eligibility rules apply.
Help and complaints
Massachusetts Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program supports residents of long term care and their families.
Also worth knowing in Massachusetts
Under 651 CMR 12.00, a Massachusetts assisted living residence may not operate a Special Care Residence without submitting an operating plan to the state, and must give residents a copy of their service plan.
Questions
Who regulates assisted living in Massachusetts?
Executive Office of Elder Affairs (Executive Office of Aging & Independence).