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Nursing Homes in Delaware
Total Facilities:111
Avg Nursing Home Score:44.9
High-Performing NHs:2.3%
Quick Answer
Delaware has 44 nursing homes, 33 assisted living communities, and 23 home health agencies in our database. Its nursing homes average a SunsetWell Score of 5.0/10, with 2.3% scoring 75 or higher. Average monthly cost: $9,000-$12,600.
Finding Care in Delaware
If you're searching for nursing home care in Delaware—whether in Wilmington, Dover, Newark, or smaller towns—you're facing one of life's most difficult decisions. You might be feeling guilty about not providing care at home, worried about costs, or overwhelmed by options in a small state. Please know: seeking professional nursing care when your loved one needs 24/7 medical support is responsible and compassionate.
Delaware has approximately 50 skilled nursing facilities, regulated by the Office of Health Facilities Licensing and Certification. Many facilities specialize in memory care, post-acute rehabilitation, or complex medical needs. Delaware nursing homes often serve close-knit communities with personalized care and strong local reputations.
Costs in Delaware are near the national average, with northern Delaware (near Wilmington and the Pennsylvania border) being more expensive than southern Delaware. Delaware Medicaid covers nursing home care for eligible individuals, and most facilities accept Medicaid—though many require a period of private pay first. Delaware's ombudsman program provides advocacy for residents and families.
Delaware at a Glance
Facility Breakdown
Skilled Nursing Facilities:44
Assisted Living Communities:33
Home Health Agencies:23
Other provider types:11
The total includes every provider type in the database; the categories above explain the largest groups and show the remainder separately.
Quality Metrics
Avg Nursing Home Score:44.9
Median Nursing Home Score:45.7
Nursing Homes Scoring 75+:1 (2.3%)
Staffing Reliability Context
State averages can hide whether staffing is steady day to day. Our Weekend Effect report uses CMS daily payroll data to compare weekend staffing drops, volatility, and contract labor reliance at individual nursing homes.
Request help from SunsetWell
You can store a research request with SunsetWell. Individual review and a response are not guaranteed, so contact facilities directly for current details.
The sponsored advisor link uses affiliate measurement and is available only with optional marketing consent. You can use the SunsetWell request form without changing your privacy choice.
Compare Nursing Homes in Delaware
#1
EXCELCARE AT WILMINGTON LLC
WILMINGTON • 2801 W. 6TH STREET
Health: 2 stars
Staffing: 4 stars
Quality: 5 stars
75
Excellent · 100th percentile in DE
61
Good · 98th percentile in DE
#3
WILLOWBROOKE COURT AT COKESBURY VILLAGE
HOCKESSIN • 726 LOVEVILLE ROAD
Health: 4 stars
Staffing: 4 stars
Quality: 5 stars
60
Good · 95th percentile in DE
#4
BAY TERRACE REHABILITATION AND HEALTH CENTER
DOVER • 889 SOUTH LITTLE CREEK ROAD
Health: 2 stars
Staffing: 4 stars
Quality: 5 stars
59
Average · 93rd percentile in DE
#5
EXCEPTIONAL CARE FOR CHILDREN
NEWARK • 11 INDEPENDENCE WAY
Health: 5 stars
Staffing: 5 stars
Quality: 5 stars
59
Average · 91st percentile in DE
#6
CADIA REHABILITATION SILVERSIDE
WILMINGTON • 3322 SILVERSIDE ROAD
Health: 2 stars
Staffing: 5 stars
Quality: 5 stars
58
Average · 88th percentile in DE
57
Average · 86th percentile in DE
#8
NEW CASTLE HEALTH AND REHABILITATION CENTER
NEW CASTLE • 32 BUENA VISTA DRIVE
Health: 1 stars
Staffing: 4 stars
Quality: 5 stars
57
Average · 84th percentile in DE
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Medicaid Coverage in Delaware
Many families need help paying for nursing home care. Medicaid is a vital resource, but the rules vary by state. Here's what you need to know about Medicaid nursing home coverage in Delaware.
Eligibility Requirements
Monthly Income Limit:
$2,982 (2026); Delaware uses an income cap, but those exceeding it can establish a Qualified Income Trust (QIT)
$2,982 (2026); Delaware uses an income cap, but those exceeding it can establish a Qualified Income Trust (QIT)
Asset Limit:
$2,000 for individuals, with home and one vehicle typically exempt. Spousal protections available.
$2,000 for individuals, with home and one vehicle typically exempt. Spousal protections available.
Processing Time:
45-60 days for initial determination
45-60 days for initial determination
How to Apply
Apply through the Delaware Division of Social Services at dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss or at your local DSS office. You'll need financial documents, medical records, and citizenship proof.
Important Tips for Delaware Families
- •Delaware's income limit is $2,982/month (2026). If exceeded, you'll need a Qualified Income Trust (QIT)—an elder law attorney can help.
- •Many Delaware facilities require 60-90 days of private pay before accepting Medicaid. Confirm policies during tours.
- •Delaware has Medicaid estate recovery, but exemptions exist for surviving spouses and disabled children.
- •Work with a Delaware elder law attorney to understand spousal asset protections.
- •Veterans in Delaware should apply for VA Aid & Attendance benefits, providing up to $2,424/month.
Nursing Home Costs in Delaware
$300-$420/day average
Monthly Range: $9,000-$12,600
Delaware nursing home costs are near the national average. Northern Delaware (Wilmington area) is more expensive than Dover and southern Delaware. Medicare covers skilled nursing for up to 100 days post-hospitalization. Delaware Medicaid covers long-term care for eligible residents.
Medicare Coverage: Medicare Part A covers skilled nursing facility care for up to 100 days following a qualifying hospital stay (3+ days). Days 1-20 are fully covered; days 21-100 require a copay ($217/day in 2026).
Delaware Resources & Advocacy
Oversight & Complaints
Delaware Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
1-302-674-7364Visit website →
The ombudsman helps resolve complaints and advocates for nursing home residents' rights.
Delaware Office of Health Facilities Licensing and Certification
View inspection reports →Support & Guidance
Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities
1-800-223-9074Visit website →
Area agencies on aging provide care planning, caregiver support, and benefit counseling.
Medicare Nursing Home Compare
medicare.gov/care-compare →Ready to Find the Right Facility?
Use our personalized navigator to find facilities that match your loved one's needs, insurance, and location in Delaware.
Start Navigator Tool →Disclaimer: This guide is educational only. SunsetWell scores are based on CMS data and peer-group analysis. Medicaid eligibility rules change frequently—always verify current requirements with your state Medicaid office. Always tour facilities personally, speak with staff, review current state inspection reports, and consult healthcare professionals before making placement decisions.
Last updated: June 2026 | Data source: CMS Nursing Home Compare, Delaware Office of Health Facilities Licensing and Certification, SunsetWell Analysis