All direct care staff working in residential homes are certified in CPR and First Aid. They also receive ongoing training in Medication Administration, Driver Safety, Physical Assistance, and Human Rights. Homes with residents that require more extensive medical care are staffed with Certified Nursing Assistants.

Residential home residents create and participate in the daily routine of their home to the extent that they are able. Meal planning/preparation, laundry, general housekeeping, and shopping are some of the activities where their assistance is expected and encouraged.

Each residential home resident receives routine medical care by their own physician, dentist, or other medical specialist. A full time registered nurse regularly monitors the medical condition or needs of each individual living in a group home.

Individualized Service Planning

Each person who moves into a LifeLinks CLASS residential home receives a person-centered service plan developed with input from the individual, family members, guardians, and the residential team. The plan identifies personal goals, support needs, communication preferences, and daily living skills the person wants to build or maintain. Staff use this document to guide everyday interactions and to track progress over time.

Service plans are reviewed at least every 90 days, or more often when a person’s needs or circumstances change. During these reviews, the program manager, direct support staff, the individual, and invited family members or advocates meet to discuss what is working well and what could be improved. Adjustments are made promptly, and updated plans are shared with all team members to ensure consistent, respectful support.

Goals might include preparing a simple meal, using public transportation with less assistance, managing a personal budget, or increasing participation in community activities. Each goal is broken into small, achievable steps so that progress can be celebrated regularly.

Health and Safety Oversight

LifeLinks CLASS takes a proactive approach to health and safety in every residential home. Each residence follows a written emergency preparedness plan that covers fire evacuation, severe weather, medical emergencies, and utility outages. Staff participate in unannounced and scheduled drills throughout the year, and all homes are equipped with smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and clearly posted evacuation routes.

Medication administration is supervised by trained direct support staff and, in homes where residents have higher medical needs, by Certified Nursing Assistants. Medication records are audited regularly to ensure accuracy, proper storage, and documentation. Any medication error or missed dose is reported immediately, reviewed by the program manager and nursing consultant, and addressed through additional training or system changes as needed.

• Monthly safety inspections cover exits, lighting, appliances, and outdoor walkways.
• All incidents and injuries are documented and reviewed by the quality assurance team.
• Homes are visited regularly by maintenance staff to address repairs before they become hazards.

Community Inclusion and Social Engagement

Residents are supported to be active members of their neighborhoods and the wider Greater Lowell community. Staff help each person identify interests — such as attending local sporting events, visiting libraries and museums, joining faith communities, volunteering, or taking exercise classes — and then build regular opportunities into the weekly schedule. Transportation is provided in agency vehicles or through public transit, depending on the person’s preference and skill level.

Many homes plan group outings and social events, but individual interests always take priority. A resident who loves art may attend a weekly painting workshop in Lowell, while another may prefer one-to-one walks at a nearby conservation area in Chelmsford. Staff document these activities and look for ways to expand social networks, including connecting residents with peer groups, Special Olympics, and local recreation programs.

Family visits and friendships are encouraged. Homes maintain comfortable common areas where residents can host guests, and overnight stays with family or friends are supported whenever the person wishes.

Family and Guardian Communication

Open, consistent communication with families and guardians is a core part of LifeLinks CLASS residential services. Each home has a designated program manager who serves as the primary contact for questions, concerns, and updates. Families receive regular written progress notes, and phone calls or in-person meetings are scheduled at times that work for them. Interpreters and translated materials are available when needed.

At a minimum, a formal meeting is held every six months to review the person’s service plan, health status, and overall satisfaction. In addition, families are notified promptly about any significant event, including medical appointments, changes in medication, behavioral incidents, or planned vacations. Guardians are invited to participate in all major decisions affecting the person’s daily life, from routine changes to new activities.

Where it helps, LifeLinks CLASS looks at ways for authorized family members can view photos, activity logs, and upcoming events. Staff also provide a monthly newsletter with updates from each home and reminders about community events and family gatherings.

The Group Home Program is funded through the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Families and individuals over the age of 22 who are interested in the this program must be referred by DDS.  The quality of services to individuals served in LifeLinks CLASS residential programs are reviewed and certified by the Department of Developmental Services Office of Quality Enhancement (QUEST).