Delaware Long-Term Care Survey Identifies Improvement Needs

A state-wide review reveals critical gaps in staffing and wait times that residents and families should monitor.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Eldercare

Gouache-painted illustration of a sunlit residential sunroom with two empty armchairs and a potted plant, representing assisted-living care standards. — The Delaware Residents' Protection Commission's 2026 survey identifies critical gaps in staffing and response times across the state's long-term care facilities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you trust your local long-term care facility to be transparent about its quality of care?

The Delaware Residents' Protection Commission conducted a satisfaction survey of long-term care facilities throughout fiscal 2026. This retrospective review highlights key areas for improvement in care quality for residents across the state.

Why it matters

Collecting feedback on safety, staffing, and medical care allows the commission to pinpoint necessary adjustments in how facilities operate. This process helps ensure that families can better evaluate care standards and advocate for their loved ones in assisted-living and nursing environments.

The survey results from fiscal 2026 highlight a clear need for improvements in wait times for care and resource allocation for staff. This data represents findings across skilled-nursing, assisted-living, and memory care units throughout Delaware.

The players

Delaware Residents' Protection Commission

A state body that monitors quality assurance systems and advocates for resident care improvements.

The details

The commission evaluates quality assurance by visiting facilities to review documentation and gather input from residents, families, and employees. These site visits and surveys focus on seven key metrics: safety, staffing, communication, responsiveness, cleanliness, medical care, and respect. By identifying trends in these areas, the commission facilitates necessary conversations between facility management and stakeholders to drive higher standards.

The Delaware Residents' Protection Commission conducted its satisfaction survey during fiscal 2026.

The Home Front

This survey aligns with broader state efforts to maintain transparency in long-term care quality standards. It follows established protocols for monitoring assisted-living and nursing home compliance across Delaware.

If you are concerned about the quality of care at a facility, contact the Residents' Protection Commission at 302-836-2133. For additional oversight assistance, families can reach the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program at 855-773-1002 or the Division of Health Care Quality at 877-453-0012.

The takeaway

Understanding facility survey data is a critical step for families managing long-term care logistics. Keep the contact numbers for the Residents' Protection Commission and the Division of Health Care Quality on file to report concerns or request information on specific facility standards.