Senior Guidance

Senior Living in Delaware

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Delaware (nicknamed “The First State”) is the second smallest state in terms of landmass in America and the sixth least populated, though it is very dense -- the sixth highest in the country. Senior living facilities in Delaware border Maryland to the south and west, along with Pennsylvania (to the north) and New Jersey (to the east).

The state is known for having only three counties, the lowest number of any state, with the southern two counties of Kent and Sussex being more agricultural and New Castle County more industrialized. Its close proximity to major cities like Baltimore, Washington D.C. and New York City make Delaware an under the radar destination for retirees and seniors looking for senior apartments.

Delaware Affordable Senior Housing

Unlike Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island and just about every other part of the New England and Tri-State area -- Delaware is actually an affordable place for senior housing and apartments. Delaware senior apartments and condos average $2,800 per month, with some senior apartments being as cheap as $700 to $900 per month. Compared to the rest of the northern east coast, those rates are impossible to beat.

Location is everything they say in real estate, and while residents of Delaware will pay far less for senior living apartments than neighboring states, they do not suffer from a lack of quality of living or quick access to several major cities in the surrounding states. Therefore, senior housing in Delaware is considered somewhat of a hidden gem.

The communities of North Star, Pike Creek, Hockessin and Rehoboth Beach are especially affordable options when it comes to senior living apartments. Meanwhile, Greenville, Middletown, Highland Acres and Newark represent slightly higher priced towns yet still affordable for seniors in Delaware living on a fixed income.

Delaware Senior Apartments – Amenities:

What makes a good senior apartment or senior housing for rent in Delaware? Is it comfort and style of the setting? Is it a convenient and accessible floor plan with no staircases and entrance ramp? Is it other amenities like a spa or fitness center? All of these amenities can be found in the best housing complexes for seniors in Delaware with a little effort and time. If you can’t afford Connecticut or Massachusetts, then you should definitely look into Delaware senior apartments, as Delaware offers the same quality of life at cheaper monthly rates.

Additionally, a variety of elderly housing in Delaware is equipped to handle animals and considers itself “pet-friendly”. If you have dogs, cats or other types of pets you will want to search for something that supports this lifestyle. Some senior housing facilities in Delaware may charge an extra fee or deposit on the rental if you request these services, yet most older adults consider that a small price to pay to have a member of their family with them.

Are Senior Living Facilities in Delaware right for you?

If you already live on the east coast, or are looking to relocate, Delaware offers some of the best value for seniors looking for an affordable apartment or independent living community. It has quick access to a number of other major cities in other states, yet costs far less compared to its neighbors. Senior apartments in Delaware are also well constructed and will serve as a comfortable place to live for years!

When it comes to finding a suitable retirement community, the last thing you want to do is gamble. Thankfully, seniors interested in gambling can head to Delaware and win big both at the slots and in their choice of senior living communities. This coastal state is pretty compact, in fact, there is only one other state that ranks as being smaller. Active seniors who like to explore historical sites and peruse the various cultural attractions like The Delaware Wine & Ale Trail or the Delaware History Trail are in for a treat. The state offers a sales tax-free haven for retirees and visitors alike making it an ideal option for budget-friendly mature adults. There are plenty of social events such as the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival and the fall Apple-Scrapple Festival to keep seniors entertained.

Types of Senior Living Communities in Delaware

Retirement is a long-term goal that most people spend their lives working towards. After building a family and purchasing a home, most people want to retire and reduce their workload. One way seniors in Delaware are making their dreams a reality is by moving into senior retirement communities. There is a diverse range of options to choose from that target various senior interests and needs. There are senior communities that cater to specific age ranges such as those that are 55+ or 62+. There are even communities that offer continuing care so seniors can upgrade to different facilities within the community as their care needs change. For those looking for a unique experience, a lifestyle senior living community may be worth considering.

Independent Living Communities in Delaware

Are you an active adult interested in living around other older active adults? If so, then independent senior living communities may be the perfect fit. These communities have been planned with the needs of older adults in mind. With wider streets, more accessible access to basic services, in-area dining, and more, senior independent living communities are a retiree's dream. Housekeeping is readily available, and all of the residents are in the same age range. Social events, fitness centers, and cultural activities are also key amenities provided within most senior independent living communities. Though there are usually no healthcare centers within the community itself, often, hospitals and medical care are no more than a few minutes away.

Age-Restricted Retirement Communities in Delaware

Older seniors and those close to retirement may prefer a community with a slower pace. Age-restricted communities in Delaware can meet that need. These are areas where the age limit to reside in the area is either 55 or 62 and up. Couples that have one member of the minimum age are enough to qualify. Active adults are the target of these communities, as such; it’s common for no medical services to be available within the community itself.

• 55+ Communities

Senior living communities that are restricted to active adults 55 and up are an ideal starter option for those preparing for full retirement. The homes are much smaller and easier to manage and the people living within the community are all on a similar journey. Some fitness centers within the community cater to the needs of older adults. Most 55+ communities also boast a lower cost of living. Though in some states there is an initial move-in fee, the overall savings is worth the upfront expense. Most are situated near medical centers and also tend to be in places with great weather.

• 62+ Communities

62+ senior living communities in Delaware are a haven for older adults looking to live life at a slower pace. These communities have homes that have been crafted with the needs of older adults in mind. Along with being easier to maintain, the community offers perks like yard maintenance, exercise classes, in-community dining options, and more. Lower taxes and a lower cost of living are great perks for those looking to move into a 62+ senior living community. However, the biggest advantage is being able to spend retirement in a space that is full of peace and serenity. These age-restricted communities are often less noisy and situated well away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Medical centers and hospital access tend to be nearby, but there is none within the actual community in most cases.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Delaware

Delaware Continuing Care Retirement Communities for seniors are an excellent option for older adults looking for a comprehensive retirement solution. Seniors will be able to downsize from their current homes and move into a community where they will essentially be able to age in place. It is an effective way to control costs and reduce the need for drastic changes as their age progresses. Living in a residential community that allows entry as an active adult and transitioning as one needs change is ideal. Seniors are able to avail all of the services within the community during their golden years and beyond. Older residents can get assistance with ADLs, clinical care, and even medication management if required.

Delaware CCRC communities offer independent living, guided living, assisted living, memory care, and even skilled nursing care all within the same community. It is important to consider what types of services are offered and how those services are billed. Some communities offer life care while others offer fee-per-service care. Retirees will enter a continuing care community as independent adults. In some cases, there is an entrance fee. They will be able to enjoy their golden years with access to community amenities such as dining halls, transportation assistance, grounds maintenance, and structured social events. As the resident's age or their need for care increases, there are dedicated facilities within the community into which they can relocate. Skilled nursing care, memory care, and assisted living are a few of the common options.

Luxury Senior Living Communities in Delaware

Upscale living is not only for younger people. Many seniors who worked their whole lives would prefer to spend their retirement in style. Luxury senior living communities are the perfect place for Delaware seniors to enjoy their retirement in high style. Imagine spending your golden years in a community that effectively functions like a 5-start resort. These communities offer top-of-the-line senior care, posh residential amenities, fine dining, shopping, and more. Luxury retirement communities offer a range of living arrangements starting from posh single homes for independent seniors to luxurious suites and apartments for those who are in need of nursing care or assisted living. Delaware luxury retirement communities offer many of the same services and amenities as traditional communities in the same area. They also offer an extended range of activities and services that are completely exclusive.

Residential Care Senior Living Communities in Delaware

Senior living communities in Delaware are ideal neighborhoods for older adults to spend their golden years with like-minded people. Though many use retirement community and assisted living interchangeably, they are not the same. Senior living communities are mainly for active adults who are fully or mostly independent. Seniors in Delaware who can manage most of their maintenance, but could use a small amount of help can benefit from living in a residential care community. These communities offer older seniors the freedom to live life on their terms while also getting support with daily activities. There are housekeeping helpers, medication distribution, and even transportation help for those who need it. That being said, it is for generally healthy seniors so medical care is not typically provided.

How To Choose An Active Adult or Senior Living Retirement Community

Seniors all face their own unique situations when it comes to what will be best for their retirement. As a result, there is no right or wrong with it comes to senior living options. Those in the earlier stages of their retirement will have different needs than those who are well into their golden years. The best way to choose a retirement community in Delaware is to consider what you want out of a retirement community. Do you want to pursue your hobbies or are you more concerned with continuing care? Are the luxuries in life your desire, or are you more interested in making your retirement dollars stretch?

Start by considering how active you are and how long you feel that you can live on your own without assistance. This includes cooking, basic cleaning, personal hygiene, and even getting around town. Under these circumstances, moving to a Delaware independent senior living community is a good option. Do you have a spouse who is starting to show signs of needing extra help? Maybe you want to live in a community that offers extra assistance for your own needs as you age. Seniors should think about their interests and plans for their golden years. There are lifestyle-specific senior living communities and also continuing care communities for seniors among other options. As with any major life decision, it is important to check reviews about the community, and look at the available healthcare options in the area and even the included amenities before making a commitment.

Popular Retirement Communities for Seniors in Delaware

Seniors interested in retiring to a faith-based senior living community will enjoy what Westminster Village In Dover has to offer. The staff are friendly, and the community culture is one that supports the resident’s morals and ideals. It is a continuing care community, so seniors will be able to enter as active adults and remain in the community until the end of life. Manor House in Seaford is another idyllic community that is not far from the Nanticoke River. Seniors are able to enjoy everything that nature has to offer while being close enough to the city for modern entertainment.

Common Questions About Senior Living Communities in Delaware

What senior living options are available in Delaware?

Delaware offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes. Cities like Wilmington, Dover, and Newark have a range of communities.

How do I choose the right senior living community?

Consider location, amenities, medical services, and activities. Research communities in Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Middletown.

Are there any age-restricted communities in Delaware?

Yes, Delaware has age-restricted communities like Heritage Shores in Bridgeville and Independence in Millsboro, for active seniors aged 55+.

What medical facilities are near senior living communities?

Delaware offers excellent medical facilities like ChristianaCare in Newark, Bayhealth Medical Center in Dover, and Beebe Healthcare in Lewes.

What senior-friendly recreational activities are in Wilmington?

Wilmington has activities like visits to Delaware Art Museum, Brandywine River trails, and cultural events at Grand Opera House.

What assisted living options are available in Dover?

Dover offers communities like Westminster Village and State Street Assisted Living, with personalized care and amenities.

Are there any memory care options near Lewes?

Lewes has memory care communities like Brandywine Living at Seaside Pointe, providing specialized care for seniors with memory issues.

What are some active adult communities in Delaware?

Active adult communities in Delaware include Noble's Pond in Dover, and The Peninsula on the Indian River Bay, offering amenities and social activities.

How do I find affordable senior housing in Delaware?

You can explore resources like Delaware State Housing Authority for information on affordable senior housing options in cities like Wilmington, Newark, and Dover.

What are the benefits of retirement communities in Delaware?

Retirement communities in Delaware offer social engagement, maintenance-free living, and access to healthcare. Examples include Cokesbury Village in Hockessin and Brandywine Living communities.

Are there any senior apartments for rent in Newark?

Newark has senior apartments like Brookdale White Chapel and Merestone Terrace, providing comfortable living options for seniors on a rental basis.

What retirement communities are close to the beach in Delaware?

Communities like Cadbury at Lewes and Maris Grove near Rehoboth Beach offer retirement living near the beautiful Delaware coastline.

How can I cover the costs of senior living in Delaware?

Seniors in Delaware can explore options such as Social Security benefits, pensions, savings, and long-term care insurance to cover the costs of senior living.

What are the amenities typically offered in Delaware senior communities?

Delaware senior communities often provide amenities like fitness centers, dining options, social activities, transportation services, and on-site medical care.

Are there any continuing care retirement communities in Wilmington?

Wilmington offers continuing care retirement communities like Stonegates and Acts' Cokesbury Village, providing a range of care levels as needs change.

What cultural attractions are near senior living communities in Delaware?

Delaware seniors can enjoy attractions like Hagley Museum and Winterthur Museum & Country Estate, both located near Wilmington.

How do I know if a senior living community is pet-friendly?

When looking for pet-friendly senior living in Delaware, inquire about the community's pet policies and facilities. Some communities, like Cokesbury Village, welcome pets.

What are some reputable senior living communities in Sussex County?

Sussex County offers communities like Cadbury at Lewes, Brandywine Living at Fenwick Island, and Homestead at Bethany, known for their quality care and services.

Delaware Senior Living

SeniorGuidance.org provides comprehensive resources on various senior living options, including: assisted living facilities, senior living communities, nursing homes, independent living communities, continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) and all other long term senior care options, including memory care such as Alzheimer's or Dementia.

Additional senior living options in Delaware:

Assisted Living in Delaware Nursing Homes in Delaware Dementia Care in Delaware

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