Senior Resources Resources in Delaware

Last updated September 26, 2026

Delaware residents aged 60 and older have access to a wide range of federal and state-administered programs covering healthcare, nutrition, housing, in-home support, and more. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) oversees many of these services, and local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serve as on-the-ground connectors to care across the state's three counties.

If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 Delaware is one of the most effective first steps. Trained specialists are available 24/7 to help identify programs you may qualify for and connect you to local services. You can also dial 1-800-677-1116 (Eldercare Locator) to reach your nearest Area Agency on Aging, which can coordinate everything from Meals on Wheels referrals to caregiver respite support.

Many seniors qualify for more assistance than they realize. Programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are all available in Delaware and can significantly reduce monthly expenses. Eligibility is based on income, household size, and other factors — a case manager or 2-1-1 specialist can help you determine what applies to your situation.

Key programs in Delaware

2-1-1 Delaware

A free, confidential helpline and searchable database connecting Delaware residents to health and human services including senior care, transportation, food assistance, housing, and more.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, available 24/7. You can also search online at 211delaware.org. Multilingual support is available.

Eldercare Locator / Area Agencies on Aging

Connects Delaware seniors and caregivers to local Area Agencies on Aging, which coordinate services such as in-home care, nutrition programs, legal assistance, caregiver support, and transportation.

How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (Monday–Friday, 9am–8pm ET) or visit eldercare.acl.gov. You will be connected to the AAA serving your county in Delaware.

Delaware Medicaid (Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance)

Provides health coverage for low-income seniors including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and long-term services such as nursing facility care and home- and community-based waiver programs that help seniors remain in their own homes.

How to access: Apply online at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, call the DHSS Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance at 1-800-372-2022, or visit your local Division of Social Services office.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — Delaware

Provides monthly electronic benefits to help low-income seniors purchase groceries. Seniors 60 and older may qualify under relaxed income and asset rules and may not need to complete an in-person interview.

How to access: Apply online at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, call 1-866-843-7212, or visit a Delaware Division of Social Services office. 2-1-1 can also help you start the application process.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) — Delaware

Helps eligible low-income households, including seniors on fixed incomes, pay heating and cooling energy costs. Delaware also has a crisis component for households facing utility shutoff.

How to access: Applications are accepted seasonally through the Delaware Division of State Service Centers. Call 2-1-1 Delaware for current application dates and locations, or visit dhss.delaware.gov for program details.

Senior Resources resources for Delaware

Eldercare Locator

Nationwide

Public service connecting older adults and caregivers to trustworthy local support resources.

1-800-677-1116
Visit

Medicare

Nationwide

Federal health insurance information and enrollment help for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities.

1-800-633-4227
Visit

National Council on Aging

Nationwide

Benefits screening and programs to help older adults age well and stay financially secure.

Visit
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