Housing Resources for Seniors in Delaware

Delaware provides a thorough range of housing resources and programs for seniors, managed by the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) and other local organizations. These include affordable rental options, supportive services, and assistance programs such as the Elderly Housing Counseling Program and the Low Rent Elderly Program. Eligibility for these programs typically depends on income and age requirements, targeting households with incomes at or below 50% of State Median Income. Various senior housing options are available, including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing facilities. Exploring these resources further can help seniors and their families find suitable and affordable housing solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) administers various programs, including public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers, to support seniors and disabled individuals.
• Senior Housing Options include independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing facilities, catering to diverse needs and income levels.
• Eligibility Criteria for senior housing programs typically require incomes at or below 50% of State Median Income and U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
• Application Process involves pre-application submission through Delaware.AffordableHousing.com, followed by a fully completed application form and waiting list checklist.
• Supportive Services include financial counseling, home modifications, transportation services, and community engagement initiatives to enhance quality of life for seniors.

Delaware Housing Authorities Overview

The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) plays a pivotal role in providing affordable housing opportunities to low- and moderate-income residents across the state. Established in 1968, DSHA functions as both a government agency and a lending institution, offering a range of services to support housing needs.

DSHA operates Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs primarily in Kent and Sussex Counties, administering 900 vouchers and 500 units of public housing at ten public housing sites. Additionally, DSHA provides homeownership programs for potential homebuyers in all three counties, offering down payment and closing cost assistance, as well as the Delaware First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, which qualified veterans can also utilize without needing to be first-time homebuyers.

As a community development organization, DSHA owns and operates public housing and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) properties, and administers various programs including the Housing Choice Voucher, Family Unification, and HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) programs. With approximately 300 public housing units and 1,300 Housing Choice Voucher units under its management, DSHA is a critical resource for those seeking affordable housing solutions in Delaware.

DSHA has recently launched the Landlord Incentive Program to enhance housing opportunities for individuals and families holding Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, aiming to attract more landlords to rent to those with vouchers and increase the number of rental units available.

Senior Housing Programs Available

Numerous senior housing programs are available in Delaware, catering to the diverse needs of elderly residents. These programs aim to provide affordable and accessible housing options, ensuring that seniors can maintain their independence and quality of life.

Key senior housing programs in Delaware include:

• Elderly Housing Counseling Program: Provides counseling on housing options and financial/legal matters to help seniors make informed decisions.
• Low Rent Elderly Program: Offers one and two-bedroom duplexes with rent based on 25% of monthly-adjusted income and a security deposit of $75.
• Homeownership Opportunity Program: Provides three and four-bedroom units for purchase with a 30-year Lease Purchase contract, and payments not exceeding 30% of adjusted monthly income.
• Matched Housing Program: Facilitates shared housing arrangements for senior citizens, promoting social interaction and community living.

These programs are designed to address the unique housing needs of seniors, offering a range of options to suit different lifestyles and financial situations. By providing accessible and affordable housing, Delaware's senior housing programs aim to enhance the overall well-being of elderly residents. Delaware offers a variety of senior housing options, including 87 senior housing apartments available for rent across the state.

Additionally, the Delaware Tribe Housing Program requires that residents have a verifiable income and that annual income cannot exceed 80% of the National Median Income Limits for placement in these programs.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for senior housing programs in Delaware is contingent upon meeting specific income and age requirements, with many programs targeting households with incomes at or below 50% of the State Median Income and applicants who are 62 years old or less. The application process involves submitting a pre-application through Delaware.AffordableHousing.com to be placed on the waiting list, followed by the submission of a fully completed application form and waiting list checklist. It is crucial to keep application information current, as failure to respond to requests from PHAs or AffordableHousing.com may result in removal from the waiting list. Key contacts for application guidance include the Delaware State Housing Authority, DHSS, DSCYF, and the Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). For seniors seeking long-term care, Delaware Medicaid offers various programs, including Nursing Home Medicaid, which has an income limit of $2,417.50/month for single applicants in 2025.

Age and Income Requirements

For seniors in Delaware seeking housing resources, understanding the age and income requirements is essential for traversing the eligibility and application process. The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) and Medicaid programs have specific guidelines that must be met to qualify for assistance.

Key income and age requirements include:

• *Delaware Medicaid Long-Term Care*: Single applicants must have an income of $2,417.50/month or less and assets of $2,000 or less. Married couples applying together have an income limit of $2,417.50/month per spouse and an asset limit of $3,000.
• *HUD Income Limits*: For Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs, the maximum income limit for one person is $27,600/year at 50% of median income and $44,150/year at 80% of median income.
• *DSHA Subsidized Rental Programs*: Households must have incomes at or below 80% of the area median income, with priority given to working families, elderly (62 and over), and disabled individuals.
• *General Eligibility*: U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status is required for most programs, and applicants must meet specific age and disability criteria as applicable.

Income limits are adjusted annually based on HUD guidelines, ensuring that the eligibility criteria remain aligned with current economic conditions. The Section 811 program specifically targets extremely low-income individuals with disabilities, offering project-based rental assistance to help them live independently in the community.

Application Submission Process**

Having established the key income and age requirements for seniors in Delaware seeking housing resources, the next step involves maneuvering the application submission process. This process is streamlined through a centralized platform at Delaware.AffordableHousing.com. To submit a pre-application, seniors must create a free account on this website. The application can be completed online or by downloading and sending a paper form via email, fax, or mail.

Technical assistance and general questions about applications are available at 855-301-5920 or [email protected]. The application process is designed for placement on any or all housing choice voucher waitlists in Delaware. It is essential for existing applicants to update their application information by specified deadlines to maintain their current spot on the waitlist. Failure to update an application by the deadline will result in removal from the waiting list. Updates are necessary especially if there have been significant changes to household income, family size, or contact details. This centralized system aims to increase efficiency and make it easier for applicants to find housing.

Types of Senior Housing Options

Senior housing options in Delaware cater to a range of needs and preferences, from independent living apartments and 55+ retirement communities to assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Communities like The Moorings at Lewes offer contemporary apartments and cottage homes with various floor plans, fostering social connections and enrichment activities. These options provide seniors with the flexibility to choose the level of care and support that suits their lifestyle and health requirements. The Moorings at Lewes also offers a Lifecare program that safeguards against rising care costs, providing peace of mind for residents regarding future health needs. Delaware County Housing Authority specifically offers developments such as Kinder Park Apartments IV, which are exclusively for residents aged 62 and older.

Independent Living Options

Independent Living Options offer a diverse range of housing solutions tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of seniors. These communities are designed to provide a maintenance-free lifestyle, allowing residents to focus on their interests and well-being.

Key features of independent living facilities include:

• *Residential communities*: Housing complexes specifically designed for seniors, offering various amenities and services.
• *Senior apartments*: Independent living apartments within a community setting, often with shared common areas.
• *Retirement communities*: Large communities that may include different types of housing options and a wide range of amenities.
• *55+ communities*: Neighborhoods restricted to residents 55 years and older, with varying levels of shared amenities.

Residents in these communities enjoy a variety of amenities and services, such as meal services, housekeeping, transportation, recreational activities, and security measures. The benefits of independent living include maintenance-free living, social opportunities, health and wellness programs, convenience, and peace of mind. Costs can vary greatly based on facility type and services offered, with an average annual cost of $36,300 in Delaware. Financial planning and consideration of long-term care costs are essential when choosing an independent living facility. Additionally, communities like Springpoint Senior Living offer a continuum of care, ensuring that residents have access to various care options should their health needs change.

In Delaware, communities like Harmony at Kent offer additional benefits such as organized outings to local attractions that enhance the overall living experience.

Assisted Housing Programs**

For seniors who require additional support with daily tasks but do not need the extensive care provided by nursing homes, assisted housing programs offer a viable alternative. These programs are designed to provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, while still allowing residents to maintain a level of independence.

Eligibility criteria for assisted housing programs often include age and income requirements. For example, some programs may be available to seniors aged 55 or 62 and above, with income limits based on adjusted gross income. Services provided can include counseling on housing options and financial matters, as well as access to community activities and amenities.

In Delaware, the Delaware County Housing Authority manages several developments geared towards senior housing, offering subsidized housing options with rent set at 30% of adjusted income. Programs like the Matched Housing Program also provide shared housing arrangements and counseling services to help seniors find suitable housing options. These programs aim to prevent unnecessary nursing home placements and support seniors in maintaining their independence.

Marydale Retirement Village, for instance, offers 108 one-bedroom rental apartments with rent set at 30% of adjusted gross income, making it an affordable option for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities. Senior apartments often feature safety measures such as grab bars, emergency call systems, and wheelchair accessibility to ensure the well-being of residents.

Supportive Services for Seniors

A thorough network of supportive services is vital for ensuring the well-being and safety of older adults. In Delaware, various programs and services are designed to provide extensive support to seniors, addressing their housing needs and beyond.

Key components of supportive services for seniors include:

• Monitoring and Support: The Adult Protective Service (APS) Program responds to cases of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of impaired adults, while long-term care facilities are monitored through various Delaware senior services programs.
• Financial Counseling and Assistance: The Elderly Housing Counseling Program provides financial counseling and educates senior citizens on available housing options and legal matters.
• Housing Options and Accessibility: Programs for home modifications, such as wheelchair ramps, and the Senior Citizen Affordable Taxi (SCAT) program enhance accessibility and mobility for seniors. Additionally, Delaware's Mobility in Motion program helps organizations provide transportation services to seniors and individuals with disabilities when DART services are not available transportation services.
• Community and Volunteer Services: Volunteer Delaware 50+ and the Foster Grandparents program offer opportunities for seniors to engage in community service and mentorship.

These supportive services are vital in ensuring that seniors in Delaware have access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing options, as well as the necessary support to maintain their independence and quality of life.

Additional Resources and Contacts

Building on the extensive network of supportive services for seniors in Delaware, it is equally important to highlight the various additional resources and contacts available to assist older adults in finding safe, affordable, and accessible housing options.

For thorough housing assistance, seniors can contact the Delaware Housing Alliance at 1-833-FIND-BED (833-346-3233) or [email protected]. The United Way of Delaware 211 service can also be reached by calling or texting 211 to locate additional shelter resources. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services provides information on the Elderly Housing Counseling Program, which offers counseling on available housing options and financial/legal matters.

Additional resources include the Housing Resource Locator, Delaware Housing Search.org, and HUD-approved housing counselors. Seniors can also contact Catholic Charities for information on Marydale Retirement Village and the Ministry of Caring for details on Sacred Heart Village I and II, which includes Sacred Heart Village I with 77 one-bedroom apartments designed for seniors aged 62 and older. For emergency and specialized services, veterans can contact the Wilmington VA Medical Center, and individuals can reach out to domestic violence hotlines and LGBTQ resources as needed.

The COSA Housing Unit, managed by Sandra Robinson, serves as an umbrella for various housing programs and services, including Domiciliary Care, which provides supportive living arrangements specifically tailored for older adults in Delaware County.

Navigating Housing Assistance Programs**

Maneuvering the complex landscape of housing assistance programs is essential for seniors seeking safe, affordable, and accessible housing options in Delaware. The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) offers various programs tailored to meet the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Key programs include:

• *Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8):* Federally funded, locally administered by DSHA, providing rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families.
• *State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP):* For low-income individuals requiring supportive services, administered by DSHA and referred by DHSS or DSCYF.
• *Section 811 Project Rental Assistance:* For individuals with extremely low incomes and disabilities, operated by DSHA and DHSS.
• *Elderly Housing Counseling Program:* Provides housing counseling and coordination for senior citizens within the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities.

To navigate these programs effectively, seniors must understand the eligibility criteria, which include being 62 or older, having a household income not exceeding 80% of the area median income, and being a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant. Priority is given to working families, elderly, and disabled individuals, with a focus on residents of Kent and Sussex counties.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Process Senior Housing Applications in Delaware?

Amidst the urgency of finding a home, the processing time for senior housing applications in Delaware remains uncertain, as no specific timeframe is provided, despite the centralized system aiming to increase efficiency and streamline the application process.

Can Seniors With Pets Apply for Housing Assistance Programs?

Seniors with pets can apply for housing assistance programs in Delaware, but pet policies vary by program and property. SRAP and Section 811 programs require consultation with specific properties, while Housing Choice Voucher Program policies depend on landlords.

Are There Any Senior Housing Options Available for Immediate Occupancy?

Immediate senior housing options in Delaware are limited due to closed waiting lists, but the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) offers assistance by referral only for specific populations, including those exiting long-term care facilities.

Can Out-Of-State Seniors Apply for Delaware Housing Assistance Programs?

Approximately 30% of Delaware's population is aged 60 and older. Out-of-state seniors can apply for Delaware housing assistance programs, but they must meet specific eligibility criteria, including residency and income requirements, and be referred by DHSS or DSCYF for SRAP and Section 811 programs.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Senior Housing Applications in Delaware?

There are no additional fees specified for senior housing applications in Delaware, including programs such as Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, as per federal and state guidelines.