For many families, caregiving does not begin with a plan. It begins naturally. A daughter starts helping her mother with bathing. A grandson prepares meals. A close family friend moves in to offer daily support.
That was the case for Denise and her uncle in Hartford County. Denise was already helping with meals, reminders, and daily routines. What she did not realize was that the care she was providing every day could qualify for support through Connecticut’s Adult Family Living program.
“I thought I was just doing what family does,” Denise said. “I never imagined there was a way to get help while continuing to care for him at home.”
After connecting with Pansy Homecare, Denise learned she qualified to become a paid caregiver through the AFL program. Nothing about her daily care changed. What changed was the support, structure, and financial relief.
At Pansy Homecare, our Adult Family Living (AFL) Program helps families turn caregiving into a sustainable, supported experience without removing loved ones from their homes.
What Is the Adult Family Living (AFL) Program?
The Adult Family Living (AFL) Program is a Medicaid-funded program in Connecticut that allows eligible individuals to receive care from someone they already know and trust while that caregiver receives weekly pay and professional support.
The program is designed to:
- Maintain dignity and independence
- Allow individuals to remain at home
- Support family caregivers financially and emotionally
- Create sustainable long-term care solutions
Pansy Homecare is a contracted provider of Adult Family Living throughout Connecticut and helps families navigate the process from start to finish.
Who Qualifies for the Adult Family Living Program?
Eligibility involves both the person receiving care and the caregiver. Below is a clear breakdown.
AFL Eligibility for Patients
A patient may likely qualify for the AFL program if they:
- Are 65 years or older
- Have Medicaid
- Live in Connecticut
- Need help with day-to-day activities
- Are able to direct their care, or have a representative
- Live in the same home as the caregiver
Medicare alone is not enough
Medicaid enrollment or eligibility through the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) is required.
Who Can Be a Caregiver in the AFL Program?
The caregiver must meet specific requirements.
A caregiver can be:
- An adult child (18+)
- A relative
- A friend
- Someone who lives in the same home as the patient
A caregiver cannot be:
- A legal spouse
- A legally liable relative
If you are already providing care in the home, you may already meet the caregiver requirements.
Living Arrangement Requirement
For AFL eligibility:
- The patient and caregiver must live in the same house
This shared living arrangement is a core part of the AFL program and ensures consistent, familiar care.
How the AFL Program Works With Pansy Homecare
At Pansy Homecare, we guide families through every step of the AFL process.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
We help determine if both the patient and caregiver meet program requirements.
Step 2: Application Support
Eligibility is confirmed through a quick application. Our team assists with paperwork and coordination.
Step 3: Caregiver Enrollment
Once approved, the caregiver is officially enrolled and begins receiving compensation.
Step 4: Ongoing Support and Oversight
Pansy Homecare provides professional supervision, education, and support throughout the program.
Transforming Caregiving Into a Rewarding Experience
Caring for a loved one is meaningful, but it can also be financially and emotionally demanding. The AFL program allows caregivers to:
- Receive weekly pay
- Maintain a flexible schedule
- Continue caring in a familiar home environment
- Gain access to professional support and education
Families no longer have to choose between providing care and maintaining financial stability.
Why Choose Pansy Homecare for Adult Family Living?
Not all AFL providers offer the same level of support. At Pansy Homecare, we go beyond basic program administration.
Nurse Supervision
Our AFL program includes structured oversight:
- Weekly check-in calls with caregivers
- Daily review of caregiver notes
- Spot checks
- Monthly in-person visits
This ensures quality care while supporting caregivers every step of the way.
Quality and Accountability
We prioritize high standards through:
- 60-day reporting
- 6-month re-evaluations
- Customer surveys twice per year
- Continued caregiver education
Our goal is long-term success for both the client and the caregiver.
Benefits for the Client
The AFL program supports individuals through:
- Personalized care
- Comfort of home
- Familiar routines
- Meaningful social interaction
Remaining at home promotes emotional well-being and stability.
Benefits for the Caregiver
Caregivers receive:
- Weekly compensation
- Flexible scheduling
- Ongoing education
- Personal and professional growth
Caregiving becomes supported rather than overwhelming.
Local Resources for AFL and Medicaid Support in Connecticut
The following official resources may be helpful for families exploring AFL eligibility:
State program supporting older adults who wish to remain at home.
Information on Medicaid eligibility and benefits.
Local guidance, referrals, and caregiver support.
Community resources and aging support programs.
Getting Started With Pansy Homecare
- Call (860) 212-6433 for a free consultation
- Discuss needs, routines, and goals
- Receive a personalized care plan
- Begin care with a trusted caregiver
Talk With Pansy Homecare Today
When you fill out this form, you can expect to receive a call and email from our professional staff. We will reach out to you and answer your questions.
Pansy Homecare is here to help. We serve West Hartford and the surrounding Connecticut communities
Frequently Asked Questions About the AFL Program
What is the Adult Family Living program?
The AFL program is a Medicaid-funded program in Connecticut that allows eligible individuals to receive care at home from a family member or friend who is paid for their services.
Who qualifies for the AFL program?
Individuals 65 or older with Medicaid who need help with daily activities and live with a caregiver may qualify.
Can a spouse be paid as an AFL caregiver?
No. Legal spouses and legally liable relatives cannot serve as AFL caregivers.
Does the caregiver need to live in the home?
Yes. The caregiver and patient must live in the same household.
How often are caregivers paid?
Caregivers are paid weekly through the AFL program.
Is there professional oversight?
Yes. Pansy Homecare provides nurse supervision, regular check-ins, and ongoing support.