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Nursing Homes in Delaware
Delaware is home to the nation’s fifth-oldest population, based on residency data. Nearly 20% of its 973,764 residents are 65 or older, which means that there’s increased demand for long-term care and geriatric specialists. Seniors who have significant medical needs often turn to nursing homes for assistance. These facilities provide skilled nursing and subacute medical care 24 hours a day. They also offer physical therapy, psychosocial care and rehabilitative services to help residents recover from an injury, an illness or a hospitalization and maintain optimal function.
Delaware is home to 50 nursing facilities that care for approximately 4,000 residents. These facilities typically charge $12,699 per month for a private room or $12,349 for a semiprivate room, which is well above the national average. In this guide, you’ll find information about average nursing home costs, state regulations, Medicaid long-term care benefits and resources provided by government agencies and nonprofits.
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The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Delaware
According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2020, nursing homes in Delaware cost $12,349 per month for semiprivate accommodations. Local rates are 60% higher than the U.S. median of $7,756, which costs residents an additional $4,593 every month. Seniors in Virginia pay slightly less than the U.S. median with average rates of $7,665. However, when compared to other states in the Chesapeake region, prices are moderate. Seniors in Delaware pay roughly $1,095-$2,300 more than their counterparts in Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey, which all have above-average rates.
Nursing home rates vary by state and by city. Seniors in Dover, the state capital, pay $12,882 for skilled nursing, which is $533 more than average. In Wilmington, which is part of the Philadelphia metropolitan area, seniors pay $11,285 per month, or $1,064 less than the state median. Overall, Delaware tends to be more expensive than neighboring areas. Seniors in Baltimore, Maryland, pay $11,984 on average followed those in Salisbury, Maryland, at $10,768. Nursing homes in the southern New Jersey city of Vineland are also more affordable than Delaware with median rates of $10,950 per month. In Virginia Beach, nursing homes charge about $90 less than the U.S. median at $7,665 per month.
Dover
$12882
Wilmington
$11285
Vineland, NJ
$10950
Salisbury, MD
$10768
Baltimore: MD
$11984
Virginia Beach, VA
$7665
Skilled nursing is the most expensive form of long-term care in Delaware. With average rates exceeding $12,000, it costs almost twice as much as assisted living, which averages $6,690. Families may also consider in-home care as a possible alternative. Home health agencies provide household assistance and medical care for $4,767 per month based on 44 hours of weekly care. Individuals who are interested in light personal care and structured daily activities may consider adult day health care, which costs just $1,645 per month, a rate that’s similar to the U.S. average of $1,603.
In-Home Care
$4767
Home Health Care
$4767
Adult Day Care
$1645
Assisted Living Facility
$6690
Nursing Home Care
$12349
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Delaware?
More than 271,000 Delaware residents are enrolled in the state’s managed long-term care Medicaid program, which is called the Diamond State Health Plan Plus. Over 4,000 seniors live in Delaware nursing homes that accept Medicaid. Delawareans enrolled in DSHP-Plus and residing in a nursing home contracted with Delaware Medicaid are covered for their room, board and skilled nursing care. Some facilities also provide medical equipment, supplies and other services.
There are 46 nursing homes in Delaware, 42 of which accept Medicaid, accounting for more than 5,000 state-licensed beds. Elderly persons who require skilled nursing care but want to remain at home may be eligible for the Long-Term Care Community Services Program, which provides in-home care. These services can include personal care, case management, medical and social day care, respite care, mental health services, supplemental nutrition, assisted living support and an emergency response system.
Medicaid Eligibility in Delaware
For Delaware seniors to be eligible for the state’s nursing home facility program through Medicaid, they must be medically evaluated and be within certain income limits. A registered nurse from the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance Pre-Admission Screen unit assesses a potential nursing home admittee for skilled or intermediate care requirements. An interview with a DMMA financial social worker is also required, along with specific items necessary to help determine eligibility.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $27,420 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $27,420 | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $54,840** | $3,000 |
*All monthly income except for a $50/mo. personal needs allowance and Medicare premiums must be paid to the facility as a share of cost. There may also be a monthly needs allowance for a non-applicant spouse, .
**Income limit is for applicant only.
Additional eligibility requirements include:
- Delaware residency
- U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status with permanent residency
How To Apply for Medicaid in Delaware
Delaware seniors and their families can apply for Medicaid long-term care programs online at the Delaware ASSIST website or by calling (866) 940-8963 with application inquiries. Individuals can also apply by contacting Delaware Health and Social Services by phone at (800) 372-2022 or in person at the main office in New Castle. Another option is to seek out the Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center for information and assistance through its website, on the phone at (800) 223-9074 or via email at DelawareADRC@delaware.gov.
Seniors and their families should be sure they can meet all eligibility criteria and have the necessary documentation ready for the program before submitting an application.
Information You Will Need:
- Birth certificate (or INS alien cards)
- Photo ID
- Social Security card
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if married or divorced)
- Power of attorney or guardianship information
- Health insurance cards
- Proof of health insurance premiums
- Titles to any motor vehicles owned
- Documents verifying all income and resources
- Bank, trust and annuity statements
Applicants will need these documents at the eligibility interview.
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Delaware
The following table contains details and information concerning free resources in Delaware that can help families navigate the complicated process of applying for Medicaid assistance.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities | (800) 223-9074 | Delaware's Division of Services for Aging provides support and services to the elderly and disabled population in the state. The Nursing Home Transition Program helps Medicaid-eligible seniors obtain placement in a community-based setting or nursing facility. Seniors are offered individualized case management to help them complete applications and identify eligibility. |
| Benefits.gov | (866) 854-7212 | Benefits.gov is a federal website that provides state-specific information concerning health care and medical assistance. Delaware Medicaid eligibility requirements are listed and can be tested on the website by selecting the appropriate income information to view the income limits. An application for Medicaid can be downloaded, or seniors can call the Customer Relations Unit to ask for more information. |
| Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance | (302) 255-9500 | Delaware's Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance provides health care coverage to people who are eligible for long-term care services, especially in nursing home facilities or through community-based services. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Delaware?
Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, but seniors must meet a number of specific requirements. This benefit is available to beneficiaries who have been hospitalized for at least three days, excluding the date of discharge, so it’s most valuable for those who are recovering from an injury, illness or surgery.
Once seniors meet the hospitalization requirement, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days of skilled nursing per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full. Starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.
What Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare covers a number of specific services, including:
- Meals
- A semiprivate room
- Medications
- Skilled nursing
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Audiologist care
- Medical supplies
- Medical social services
- Nutritional counseling
- Ambulance transportation
What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care that addresses seniors’ day-to-day needs. This includes help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and using medical equipment.
For more information about Medicare and when it covers Nursing Home Care, read our Guide to Nursing Homes.
Medicare Support & Resources in Delaware
Families navigating ways to pay for nursing home care for their loved ones may look into whether Medicare can cover some of the initial costs. Health insurance through Medicare can assist financially toward a nursing home stay, but only for a short period of time. Information and guidance concerning Medicare coverage for long-term care can be accessed through the following organizations.
| Program | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center | (800) 223-9074 | The ADRC provides seniors with a wealth of information about the Medicare program by listing trained providers in various Delaware cities who can answer questions, provide counseling and help seniors get the services they need. |
| Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau | (800) 336-9500 | The Administration for Community Living funds the DMAB, which provides seniors with education about Medicare programs through volunteers. Help can be provided with billing problems, long-term care insurance information and medical assistance programs. |
| Delaware Department of Insurance | (302) 674-7300 | This consumer advocate agency oversees insurers, including Medicare and Medicare Advantage plan providers. Issues, complaints and concerns can be discussed with the Consumer Services agents. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Delaware
While Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most common programs used to pay for Nursing Home Care, there are other financial assistance options available, depending on your unique situation.
| Name | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for skilled nursing care. |
| Reverse Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for nursing care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan. |
| Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance | Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov. | Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for skilled nursing care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Delaware
There are many resources in Delaware that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities | 800-223-9074 | Delaware's Area Agencies on Aging offer services to support the health and well-being of seniors in the state. They provide community services to meet the nutritional, health, social, emotional and recreational needs of older adults. AAAs offer easy access to information regarding support services and long-term care options. The agencies empower seniors and assist them in maintaining their independence through respite care, nutrition programs and support groups. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Delaware provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Emergency Assistance Services | Seniors who are living on a low income may qualify for ongoing government assistance to help them purchase food or cover urgent bills. There are also emergency government assistance programs that can help with unforeseen expenses or shortterm bills. | |
| Delaware Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Delaware seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) | The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly is available in some parts of Delaware but isn't statewide. PACE doesn't provide funds directly. Rather it simplifies the Medicare and Medicaid process, providing a single point of contact for all Medicare and Medicaid payments, claims and assessments. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Delaware seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Meals on Wheels | Delaware Meals on Wheels provides hot, nutritious home-delivered meals to homebound seniors and disabled residents throughout the state. The program is administered through five organizations: City Fare Meals on Wheels in New Castle County, Newark Senior Center, Modern Maturity Center in Kent County, CHEER in Sussex County and Meals on Wheels Lewis-Rehoboth. Seniors can contact their nearest program for food delivery. In addition to providing daily meals, the organization offers meal kits with nonperishable foods to stock seniors' kitchens. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Low-income elderly individuals in senior living communities can access financial assistance through local-run programs. These Delaware resources offer advice, guidance and support to help older adults pay for the services offered by long-term care providers.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Diamond State Health Plan - Plus | 800‐996‐9969 | The Diamond State Health Plan - Plus is a Medicaid waiver that covers long-term care options for seniors, including nursing home care. The state discontinued several other waivers for the elderly and disabled and created one simplified waiver to help seniors who require varying levels of care either in the community or in nursing facilities. This managed long-term care waiver is divided into two sub-programs, the Nursing Facility Program and the Long-Term Care Community Services Program. While the program is for managed care, there's still some scope for consumer-directed care. Seniors can choose providers for certain elements of their care, including hiring family members if desired. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Delaware collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative | 800-223-9074 | The Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative provides short-term durable medical equipment loans to individuals experiencing temporary illness, are having other equipment repaired or simply wish to try a medical device before committing to a purchase. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Delaware seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Prescription Assistance Program | 844-245-9580 | The Delaware Prescription Assistance Program offers support for individuals who are unable to cover the cost of prescription drugs themselves. The program is aimed at low-income individuals who have no prescription drug cover other than Medicare Part D and those who have an income below 200% of the federal poverty level. This program is open to elderly or disabled individuals who cannot cover the cost of physician-prescribed drugs and those who are on a low income or whose prescription bills exceed 40% of their income. Seniors who qualify for the program may receive support of up to $3,000 per year toward the cost of Medicare Part D premiums and certain prescription medications. |
Home Repair and Modifications
Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Delaware have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program | 302-504-6111 | The Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home improvements to help make homes more energy efficient. The program offers a variety of assistance, including insulation, weather stripping, low-energy light bulbs and other home improvements. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Delaware seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. | 800-537-8383 | Delaware Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. provides free legal services to seniors aged 60 and older and adults with disabilities. Under the Elder Law Program, Delaware older adults can receive advice and information on a variety of senior-related issues, including living wills, powers of attorney, consumer problems and benefits. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Delaware help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Delaware resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Senior School Property Tax Relief | The Senior School Property Tax Relief program offers a discount on property taxes of 50% up to a total value of $400. The relief can only be applied to the senior's primary residence. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Delaware retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program assists families struggling with their utility bills in the form of emergency payments to assist with heating bills during winter and air conditioning during the summer months. |
Veteran's Services
Delaware retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware VA Benefits and Health Care | The Delaware VA Benefits and Health Care program offers medical care and additional benefits to seniors throughout the state. Through the state's VA program, seniors who served in the military often qualify for services and retirement benefits. The main VA Medical Center is located in Wilmington, and the VA also has outpatient clinics or vet centers in Dover, Georgetown and Wilmington. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Delaware
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Intermediate and skilled nursing facilities in Delaware are regulated by the Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Health Care Quality. |
| Staffing | Delaware nursing homes must employ a medical director and full-time director of nursing. Facilities must have sufficient staff to provide 2.25 hours of daily direct care per resident, and an RN or LPN must be on-site during day and evening shifts and on-call at night. |
| Staff Training | Nursing facilities must provide training related to health, safety, personal protective equipment and infection control procedures. Additionally, all certified nursing assistants must complete at least 150 hours of training, which is double the federal minimum. Facilities that care for individuals with Alzheimer's or similar conditions must provide dementia-specific training to their staff. |
| Admission Restrictions | Nursing homes may admit residents who have an illness or impairment, are under a physician's care and may benefit from palliative medical care or nursing services. Facilities that admit pediatric residents under the age of 18 are subject to additional requirements. |
| Care Planning | Facilities must conduct a needs assessment for each resident within 14 days of admission, and comprehensive care plans must be developed within seven days of the assessment to address the residents' physical, nutritional and psychological needs. |
| Dietary and Nutrition Services | Nursing homes must conduct a comprehensive nutritional assessment for each resident and provide appropriate meals or snacks, including therapeutic or mechanical options if needed. Weekly menus must be posted in the kitchen and dining area, and the facility must maintain adequate pantry supplies and records while meeting standards for food safety and cleanliness. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Intermediate and skilled nursing facilities may provide physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as psychosocial services. Rehabilitative care may be administered as needed to aid in residents' recovery and to promote optimal functioning and self-sufficiency. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Facilities must employ a qualified pharmacist consultant who is responsible for reviewing residents' medication records and overseeing pharmaceutical services. Staff members must follow strict standards for dispensing, labeling and recording residents' prescriptions, including any provider-ordered, over-the-counter medications. |
| Activities | Nursing homes must employ a qualified activities director and maintain adequate common areas designed for social and recreational activities. |
| Infection Control | Health care facilities must employ an infection control coordinator and establish policies and procedures for detecting and preventing the spread of communicable diseases among residents and staff members. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Medicaid will cover nursing home care if residents meet income and asset limits and use all of their income to pay for care, excluding a nominal personal needs allowance. |
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