Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Delaware (2025)

Last updated: September 10, 2025

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

If you need help right now, start here.

Reality check: Phone numbers, office hours, and service boundaries change. Always use the official links above to confirm the latest details.

What this guide covers (and how to use it)

• Who it’s for: Delaware residents age 60+ who live with a disability, their caregivers, and professionals who help them.
• What’s inside: How to get health coverage, long-term care, food, housing help, tax relief, transportation, legal help, and more—plus steps to apply.
• How to use: Start with the emergency box if something is urgent. Otherwise, use the section you need now. Save or print the tables.

This is a Delaware-specific guide. Links go to official state or trusted sources so you can verify details.

Eligibility basics for seniors with disabilities in Delaware

• Residency: You generally must live in Delaware to get state services.
• Age and disability: Many programs target 60+ or 65+, but disability-related services can start earlier. Program definitions of disability vary.
• Income and assets: Limits differ by program and change each year. Don’t self-disqualify—many people qualify even with modest savings or home ownership.
• How to apply: Most Delaware public benefits use the ASSIST portal. You can apply, upload documents, and check status.
  • Apply online: Delaware ASSIST
  • Need help with an application? Contact the ADRC or call 1-800-223-9074.

Reality check: Benefits can take weeks to months to start. If you’re short on food, medicine, or facing utility shutoff now, call 2-1-1 and the ADRC for immediate options while your application is processed.

Health coverage and long-term care in Delaware

Delaware’s aging and disability system is run through the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). Older adults and people with disabilities often use a mix of Medicare, Medicaid, and state programs.

Medicaid for seniors and adults with disabilities (DMMA)

• What it is: Low- or no-cost health coverage. For those needing long-term services, Delaware uses managed care called Diamond State Health Plan-Plus (DSHP-Plus).
• Who it helps: Adults with low income, including those 65+ and adults with disabilities. DSHP-Plus serves people who need nursing home level of care at home or in a facility.
• What it covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, home health, durable medical equipment, personal care, adult day health, assisted living services (if eligible), and nursing facility care.
• Where to start:
  • Program overview: Delaware Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance (DMMA)
  • Long-term care Medicaid: DMMA Long-Term Care
  • DSHP-Plus managed care: DMMA DSHP-Plus info (check plan options and benefits)
  • Apply online: Delaware ASSIST
  • Transitioning from facility back home: Money Follows the Person (MFP)

Tips:

• If you already have Medicare, Medicaid may cover premiums and copays (“Medicare Savings Programs”). Ask DMAB (SHIP) for help applying.
• Don’t wait to ask for help with bathing, dressing, meals, or mobility. Those supports are often what qualify you for DSHP-Plus.

Medicare help in Delaware (DMAB/SHIP)

• What it is: Free, unbiased counseling on Medicare Parts A, B, D, Medigap, and Advantage plans, appeals, and cost-saving programs.
• Who it helps: People on Medicare and their caregivers.
• Where to start: Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB) from the Department of Insurance.
• Enrollment dates to remember:
  • Medicare Open Enrollment: October 15–December 7 (changes for the next year) — see Medicare.gov.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)

• What it is: Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members.
• Who it helps: Delaware Medicaid members who have no other way to get to care.
• Where to start: ModivCare Delaware

Reality check: Schedule rides early, have your Medicaid ID ready, and confirm pickup windows. If a ride is late, call the “where’s my ride” line on the ModivCare Delaware page.

Caregiver support and respite

• What it is: Help for family and unpaid caregivers—training, support groups, and may include respite hours.
• Who it helps: Caregivers of older adults and adults with disabilities.
• Where to start: Delaware Caregiver Support (DSAAPD)

Health and long-term care overview table

Food, cash, and everyday essentials

SNAP (food assistance)

• What it is: Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy food at most grocery stores and many farmers’ markets.
• Who it helps: Individuals and families with limited income. Older adults often qualify, even if they own a home.
• Where to start:
  • Program info: Delaware SNAP (DSS)
  • Apply: Delaware ASSIST

Tip: Out-of-pocket medical costs can sometimes increase SNAP benefits for older adults. Report them when you apply.

Senior food boxes (CSFP)

• What it is: A monthly box with shelf-stable foods for income-eligible adults 60+.
• Who it helps: Seniors meeting federal income guidelines.
• Where to start: Commodity Supplemental Food Program (Food Bank of Delaware) — includes how to apply and pickup locations.

Home-delivered and community meals

• What it is: Hot or frozen meals delivered at home and lunches at senior centers.
• Who it helps: Older adults, especially those who can’t easily cook or leave home.
• Where to start:
  • State nutrition services: DSAAPD Nutrition Programs
  • Local providers and fundraising support: Meals on Wheels Delaware

Social Security, SSI, and SSDI

• What they are: Monthly income benefits from the federal Social Security Administration.
• Who they help: Retirees, people with disabilities (SSDI), and low-income older adults or adults with disabilities (SSI).
• Where to start:
  • Social Security retirement: SSA Retirement
  • SSI: SSI eligibility and apply
  • Disability (SSDI): SSA Disability

Reality check: SSI/SSDI decisions can take months. If denied, appeal by the deadline—many people win on appeal. Keep copies of medical records and appointment logs.

Housing, home repairs, and staying safely at home

Affordable rentals and vouchers

• Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) provides rental help and manages some Housing Choice Vouchers. Local housing authorities also run vouchers and public housing.
  • DSHA renter resources and search tools: DSHA Renters hub
  • Housing Choice Voucher program (check availability and waitlists): DSHA Vouchers

Tip: Waitlists open and close without much notice. Sign up for alerts and check DSHA and local housing authority pages often.

Emergency home repairs

• Statewide Emergency Repair Program (SERP): Fixes urgent problems that threaten health or safety (for example, no heat, failed septic, broken well).
  • Overview and local contacts: DSHA Home Repair programs

Weatherization and energy efficiency

• What it is: Free energy-saving upgrades like air sealing, insulation, and sometimes heating/cooling repairs for income-eligible households.
• Who it helps: Homeowners and renters with limited income.
• Where to start: Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program (DNREC)

Property tax relief

• Delaware has statewide and county programs that can lower your property taxes.
  • State Senior School Property Tax Credit and Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit: Delaware Department of Finance property tax relief
  • County-level programs:
    • New Castle County exemptions: New Castle County tax exemptions
    • Kent County exemptions: Kent County assessment exemptions
    • Sussex County senior tax credit: Sussex County senior tax credit

Note: Eligibility rules (age, residency years, disability ratings for veterans) and benefit amounts can change. Always confirm on the official page.

Housing and repair programs at a glance

Transportation and mobility

Public transit and paratransit (DART First State)

• What it is: Fixed-route buses, reduced fares for older adults and people with disabilities, and door-to-door paratransit for those who qualify under the ADA.
• Who it helps: Seniors and riders with disabilities statewide.
• Where to start: DART First State
  • Paratransit details and eligibility: see DART’s Paratransit section
  • Reduced Fare info: DART Reduced Fare

Medicaid non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)

• Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members:
  • ModivCare Delaware

Veterans transportation

• The VA and local veteran service groups can help with rides to VA medical appointments.
  • VA services hub: Wilmington VA Medical Center

Transportation options summary

Tip: Keep a list of all your doctors and addresses. Book recurring rides in advance when possible.

Utilities, phones, and internet

Energy bills (LIHEAP)

• What it is: Help with heating and cooling bills. Delaware calls it the Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP).
• Who it helps: Households with limited income.
• Where to start: LIHEAP/DEAP – Division of State Service Centers

Weatherization

• Energy-saving home upgrades: DNREC Weatherization Assistance Program

Phone and internet discounts

• Lifeline (ongoing): Monthly discount on phone or internet for low-income households.
  • How to apply and verify eligibility: Lifeline Support (USAC)
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) status: Federal funding lapsed in 2024; new enrollments are closed unless Congress restores funding. Check the official page for updates: FCC ACP.

Reality check: Scams are common. Use only the official Lifeline and FCC websites or your existing phone/internet provider’s verified support channels.

Assistive technology, hearing, and vision

Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative (DATI)

• What it is: Free device demonstrations, short-term loans, and an online exchange for used equipment (like walkers, communication devices, magnifiers).
• Who it helps: Anyone in Delaware with a disability and their caregivers.
• Start here: DATI – University of Delaware

Hearing and speech access

• Delaware Relay (dial 7-1-1): Free service to place and receive calls for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or have a speech disability.
  • Learn more: Delaware Relay
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing services and advocacy: Delaware Division for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH)

Vision services

• Independent living for the visually impaired, low-vision aids, mobility training:
  • Delaware Division for the Visually Impaired (DVI)

Legal help, protection, and rights

• Adult Protective Services (report abuse, neglect, exploitation): DSAAPD APS
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman (problems with nursing homes or assisted living): DSAAPD Ombudsman
• Free or low-cost legal help:
  • Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI): civil legal help for older adults and people with disabilities — CLASI
  • Delaware Volunteer Legal Services (DVLS): DVLS
  • Legal Services Corporation of Delaware (LSCD): LSCD
• Medicare fraud education: Delaware Senior Medicare Patrol (via DMAB)

Tip: When signing admissions, home repair, or lease paperwork, ask a trusted person or legal aid to review it, especially arbitration clauses and cancellation rules.

Taxes and money management

• Property tax relief: State and county programs can lower or credit part of your property taxes.
  • State overview: Delaware Department of Finance – Property Tax Relief
  • Counties: New Castle | Kent | Sussex
• Disabled veteran school tax credit (state): See eligibility and application at Department of Finance.
• Free tax filing help:
  • AARP Foundation Tax-Aide (all ages, focuses on 50+): AARP Tax-Aide locator
  • IRS VITA/TCE: Find free tax help

Property tax relief snapshot

Reality check: The rules change. Always read the latest on the official page and talk with your county assessor if you’re unsure.

Voting and civic access

• Accessible voting options (mail-in and in-person accommodations): Delaware Department of Elections
• Delaware Relay (7-1-1) can help you call your election office if you’re deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability: Delaware Relay

Inclusive supports: LGBTQ+, veterans, Native/tribal, and rural seniors

LGBTQ+ older adults

• Many LGBTQ+ seniors face isolation and may hesitate to seek help. You have the same rights to care and housing as anyone else.
• Where to connect:
  • Statewide aging services: Delaware ADRC
  • Medicare counseling: DMAB/SHIP
  • Local community support and programs in Sussex County and beyond: CAMP Rehoboth (nonprofit community center)
  • National info and tools: SAGE National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging

Tip: If you face discrimination in a facility or program, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman or legal aid (CLASI).

Veteran seniors

• Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs (DCVA): State benefit counseling, records, memorials, and the state veterans home.
  • Start here: DCVA
  • Delaware Veterans Home (Milford): Delaware Veterans Home
  • VA health care hub: Wilmington VA Medical Center
  • Property tax relief for disabled veterans: Dept. of Finance – credits

Tip: Bring your DD-214 to benefit appointments. If you don’t have it, DCVA can help you request copies.

Native and tribal seniors

• Delaware recognizes the Nanticoke Indian Tribe and the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware. State-recognized tribes may not have federal Title VI aging grants in-state, but elders enrolled in federally recognized tribes can often access tribal benefits through their home tribes.
  • Nanticoke Indian Association: nanticokeindians.org
  • Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware: lenapeindiantribeofdelaware.com
  • National directory of tribal aging programs: ACL Title VI Locator
• Health care: Some tribal members may be eligible for Indian Health Service or Purchased/Referred Care through their home tribe; check with your tribe and IHS.

Tip: If you’re a Delaware elder with tribal enrollment in another state, tell your doctors and case managers—coordination can prevent billing problems.

Rural seniors and families

• Sussex and parts of Kent County have long distances, few specialists, and limited broadband in some areas.
• What helps:
  • Try telehealth with your doctor when travel is hard (ask about insurance coverage).
  • Use Medicaid NEMT or DART paratransit for medical visits.
  • For home repairs where contractors are scarce, ask DSHA about SERP and Weatherization provider wait times early: DSHA Home Repair and DNREC Weatherization.
  • Food deliveries: Ask Meals on Wheels providers about your address: Meals on Wheels Delaware
  • For local referrals: Delaware 2-1-1

Regional resources (by county)

Use these to find nearby offices and programs.

New Castle County

• Aging & Disability Resource Center: ADRC
• Public transit: DART First State
• State Service Centers directory (find the nearest center for LIHEAP, referrals, etc.): DHSS State Service Centers
• Housing help and repairs: DSHA Renters and DSHA Home Repair
• County property tax exemptions: New Castle County Tax Exemptions

Kent County

• Aging & Disability Resource Center: ADRC
• State Service Centers directory: DHSS State Service Centers
• Housing help and repairs: DSHA Renters and DSHA Home Repair
• County property tax exemptions: Kent County Exemptions

Sussex County

• Aging & Disability Resource Center: ADRC
• State Service Centers directory: DHSS State Service Centers
• Housing help and repairs: DSHA Renters and DSHA Home Repair
• County senior tax credit: Sussex County Senior Tax Credit

Tip: If you’re not sure which office to call, dial 2-1-1 or the ADRC (1-800-223-9074). They’ll route you.

Step-by-step: Applying for common benefits in Delaware

1. Build your document packet

• Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of Delaware residency (mail, lease, or bill), income documents (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs), bank statements, and medical bills (for SNAP seniors).
• If applying for long-term care Medicaid: gather proof of assets and five-year financial history (transfers can affect eligibility).

2. Create an ASSIST account

• Go to Delaware ASSIST to apply for Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefits.
• If you can’t use a computer, ask the ADRC for help or visit a State Service Center.

3. Submit and track

• Upload documents in ASSIST. Keep copies of everything you send.
• Check your ASSIST messages and mail for appointment or interview requests.

4. If denied

• Read the denial letter fully for appeal instructions and deadlines.
• Call ADRC for options and legal aid (CLASI) if you need help appealing.

5. While you wait

• Food now? See DSAAPD Nutrition, CSFP, or call 2-1-1.
• Heat or lights at risk? Apply for LIHEAP/DEAP and ask your utility about payment plans.

Common problems (and how to handle them)

• “The waitlist is closed.” Check back weekly. Ask if there’s a “pre-application” or interest list.
• “My ride never came.” Use the ModivCare “where’s my ride” line from the Delaware page, then report no-shows to your Medicaid plan.
• “The bill looks wrong.” For Medicare issues, call DMAB. For Medicaid, call your plan or DMMA. For suspected fraud, talk to the Senior Medicare Patrol via DMAB.
• “I can’t reach anyone.” Call at opening time, ask for a callback, then try the ADRC or 2-1-1 for a warm transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if I qualify for Delaware long-term care Medicaid (DSHP-Plus)?

• You need to meet financial rules and a medical “level of care” showing you need significant help (like bathing, dressing, mobility, or supervision). Start with DMMA Long-Term Care and apply via ASSIST. The ADRC can explain what documents you’ll need.

2. Can I get help at home instead of going to a nursing facility?

• Yes, if you qualify for DSHP-Plus, many services can be provided at home or in assisted living. See DSHP-Plus.

3. I’m on Medicare. Can I still get Medicaid?

• Maybe. If your income and assets are limited, Medicaid can help with premiums and copays, or provide long-term services. Ask DMAB about “Medicare Savings Programs,” then apply via ASSIST.

4. Who can help me pick a Medicare plan in Delaware?

• The Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB) gives free, unbiased help. Book an appointment: DMAB/SHIP.

5. How do I get a ramp or bathroom grab bars?

• For urgent health/safety fixes, explore DSHA’s Home Repair programs. For equipment loans or try-before-you-buy devices, check DATI. If you’re on Medicaid LTSS, ask your case manager about home modifications.

6. Where can I get home-delivered meals in Delaware?

• Start with DSAAPD Nutrition Programs and Meals on Wheels Delaware to connect to a local provider.

7. How do I apply for LIHEAP (energy assistance)?

• Apply through the Division of State Service Centers: LIHEAP/DEAP. Call a State Service Center if you need help with paperwork: Find a center.

8. Is there still help for internet bills?

• Lifeline is ongoing and can discount phone or internet. Apply via Lifeline Support. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments due to funding; check FCC ACP for any updates.

9. Who do I call if I think a nursing home is treating someone badly?

• Contact the Delaware Long-Term Care Ombudsman. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

10. I’m a veteran. What Delaware benefits are available?

• Contact the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs for state benefits and the Wilmington VA Medical Center for VA health care. For property tax relief, see Dept. of Finance.

11. I live in a rural area and can’t drive. How do I get to the doctor?

• If you have Medicaid, schedule rides with ModivCare Delaware. Otherwise, apply for DART Paratransit or use Reduced Fare on fixed routes: Reduced Fare.

12. Can I get help with my Medicare drug costs?

• Ask DMAB about Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D, and apply via Social Security: Extra Help. DMAB can complete a benefits check with you.

13. Is there legal help if I’m being evicted or denied benefits?

• Yes. Contact CLASI, DVLS, or LSCD. If it involves a long-term care facility, also call the Ombudsman.

14. Where can LGBTQ+ seniors find welcoming services?

• Start with the ADRC, ask for inclusive providers, and connect with CAMP Rehoboth for community programs.

15. Are there senior centers in Delaware?

• Yes. They offer meals, activities, and benefits help. See the state list: DSAAPD Senior Centers.

One-page table: Who to call for what

Resources (official and trusted)

• Delaware Aging and Adult Services
  • Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC): ADRC
  • Adult Protective Services: APS
  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Ombudsman
  • Nutrition and senior centers: Nutrition • Senior Centers
• Medicaid, SNAP, and public benefits
  • DMMA (Medicaid): DMMA
  • Apply for benefits: Delaware ASSIST
  • SNAP (food benefits): SNAP – DSS
• Medicare help
  • Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (SHIP): DMAB
• Transportation
  • DART: DART First State
  • Medicaid NEMT: ModivCare Delaware
• Housing and repairs
  • DSHA Renters: Renters hub
  • DSHA Home Repairs: Repair programs
  • Weatherization (DNREC): WAP
• Food
  • CSFP senior food boxes: Food Bank of Delaware CSFP
  • Meals on Wheels Delaware: MOW DE
• Utilities and communications
  • LIHEAP/DEAP: Energy Assistance
  • Lifeline: Lifeline Support
  • ACP status: FCC ACP
• Assistive tech, hearing, vision
  • DATI: dati.org
  • Delaware Relay: delawarerelay.com
  • DDHH: Division for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
  • DVI: Division for the Visually Impaired
• Veterans
  • Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: DCVA
  • Wilmington VA Medical Center: VA Wilmington
  • Disabled veteran and senior tax credits: Dept. of Finance
• Legal help
  • CLASI: clasi.org
  • DVLS: dvls.org
  • LSCD: lscd.com
• Voting
  • Delaware Department of Elections: elections.delaware.gov
• General help
  • Delaware 2-1-1: delaware211.org

Disclaimer

Programs, amounts, providers, phone numbers, and eligibility rules change. Always confirm on the official website or with the agency before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.