Housing
DDS and MA Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) offer a different housing types to support you and/or your loved one. The best choice depends on your needs. To find the right fit talk to your Service Coordinator or Family Support Center.
Types of Housing
Learn more about the types of housing to help you find the right fit.
Supportive Housing
Supportive Housing is for people who want to live on their own but still need help with daily tasks. They live in apartments or houses and get support like help with cooking, cleaning, or taking medicine.
Shared Living
Shared Living allows people with disabilities to live in a family setting. It provides a safe home with a sense of community. Shared Living, residents have their own bedroom and share the home with a paid caregiver who provides personalized support, skill building and opportunities for connection to the community.
Group Homes
Group homes are shared houses where a few people with disabilities live together. Staff are there to help with everyday needs. People in group homes usually eat together, share common spaces, and may get help getting to work or other activities.
Congregate Housing
This is a shared living arrangement in affordable housing locations. Residents have their own bedroom but may share the kitchen, living and bathroom areas. The person must be able to live independently.
Section 8 Housing
This is a government program that helps people with low income pay for rent. If someone qualifies, they pay about one-third of their income for rent, and the program pays the rest. People who get SSI or SSDI often qualify. This is good for people who can live on their own with little help.
Public Housing
State-funded public housing is for income eligible individuals, families, older adults and people with disabilities. These are managed by local (town/city) housing authorities.
Living with Family
Many people with disabilities live with their families. This can be a good way to get support while staying connected to the community. Families can also set up a Special Needs Trust to help pay for housing or rent. The trust can even own a home for the person with disabilities, but it comes with responsibilities..
Accessory Dwelling Units
This is a government program that helps people with low income pay for rent. If someone qualifies, they pay about one-third of their income for rent, and the program pays the rest. People who get SSI or SSDI often qualify. This is good for people who can live on their own with little help.
Assisted Living
These places are for people who need more help, like with bathing or taking medicine. Residents usually have their own rooms or apartments, and staff are available to help. Some places are designed for people with specific needs, like memory problems.
Housing Resources
Fact Sheets
Learn more about the housing type that will work for you.
Find Services
Search for programs that offer housing services.
Get Help
Connect with your DDS Area Office to receive assistance.
Not sure where to begin?
When in doubt about what you need or are eligible for contact your Family Support Center (links to Family Support Center/Area Office). They can help you identify your Service Coordinator and others to help you.
