As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
More than 60 percent of surveyed Delaware residents over 45 say they are currently providing unpaid care to a family member or friend or have done so in the past, according to a recent AARP poll.
New AARP caregiving data released today, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States[ZI1] , finds that 24% of adults in Delaware — approximately 197,000 people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses, and other loved ones.
Sixty years ago, President Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare into law, giving all Americans over age 65 access to health coverage. Here in Delaware, about 242,000 residents are enrolled in Medicare. That includes traditional Medicare from the federal government, and from insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage.
As you know, catastrophic budget cuts to Delaware’s Grant in Aid were passed in last year’s State budget. Much of the funding that was once provided to Delaware’s senior centers, health clinics, and veteran’s programs was reduced, resulting in a loss of services to residents age 50 and over.
I recently had the opportunity to join the dynamic staff and volunteers at AARP for their annual Lobby Day at Legislative Hall in Dover. It was my first time in my new role as AARP Delaware State President. The person in this top volunteer role represents AARP to a variety of governmental, corporate and community partners in the state and helps drive the mission of AARP – to make life better for those over age 50, and their families.
Each day, more than 123,000 Delawareans serve as caregivers for family members. Families are doing their best to care for loved ones at home. But they cannot do it alone. They need help to balance work, family and caregiving. Why does Delaware law say you cannot have a nurse’s aide come into your home and administer medicines to your loved one while you’re at work? AARP and a coalition of partners want to change this law, and let families get real help at home.
Delaware recently ranked #4 among all states for number of identity theft complaints; and ranked #8 for general fraud complaints. The City of Dover ranked #7 nationwide for fraud complaints. You can prevent yourself from becoming part of this growing statistic of consumers who are scammed daily. AARP wants to help, so we decided to be a sponsor of the 55+ Expo and focus on FRAUD PREVENTION. Join us at the Expo in Dover to gain valuable tools and tips and to sign on the AARP Fraud Watch Network so you can get ongoing updates about scams nationwide and in your community.