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    Assisted Living and Long-Term Care Options

    Assisted Living and Long-Term Care Options

    If you or someone you care about needs help with daily activities, Delaware offers a range of licensed long-term care options. These facilities provide varying levels of support, depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking into assisted living or a skilled nursing facility, this page can help you get started.

    Assisted Living Facilities

    Assisted living offers a balance between independence and support. It’s a great option if you need help with things like personal care, meals, or medication reminders, but don’t require 24-hour medical care.

    In Delaware, Medicaid may help cover the cost of assisted living for those who qualify.

    📄 See the list of licensed assisted living facilities in Delaware
    (Maintained by the Division of Health Care Quality)

    Nursing Homes

    If you need more hands-on care—like help with bathing, eating, or taking medications—nursing homes offer 24/7 support. Many also provide skilled services like physical therapy, speech therapy, or post-hospital rehabilitation.

    To help compare options: Visit Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare to:

    • Review ratings and inspection results
    • Access a printable nursing home checklist
    • Read the Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home

    See the list of licensed nursing homes in Delaware.

    How to Pick a Long-Term Care Facility

    When it’s time to thinking about a long-term care facility for yourself or someone you love, you are sure to have many questions. We hope you’ll find our guide, How to Pick a Long-Term Care Facility, to be a helpful resource full of tips, things to think about and questions to ask when visiting and deciding about what option might best meet your needs.

    Topics Include:

    • Signs an older adult might need help
    • How to talk to an older adult about long-term care options
    • How to choose the right type of care for your needs
    • Things to consider when choosing a long-term care facility
    • How to cover the cost of care

    Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

    If you live in a long-term care facility—or receive home and community-based services—you have the right to safe, respectful treatment and a voice in your care.

    The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program can help by:

    • Investigating concerns or complaints
    • Making unannounced visits to ensure quality care
    • Witnessing advance health care directives
    • Supporting residents and families with confidential, no-cost advocacy

    Email: DHSS_OSEC_Ombudsman@Delaware.gov
    Call: 1-855-773-1002