Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center
SaveInterior
Outdoors
Decor
Building
Architecture
Bedroom
Lighting
Outdoor
Tree
Exercise Equipment
Fitness
Assistance
301 Ocean View Boulevard, Lewes, DE 19958
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
What level of care are you interested in?
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Independent Living
Skilled Nursing Facility
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC
Other
A nurse was fantastic. PT and occupational therapists are awesome and go out of their way to help you. The reception staff always answers questions and is helpful and pleasant to talk to. The director, Andrew, is a very nice and truly caring individual. The CNA and nursing staff are amazing in the Sussex wing. Helen has taken extra special care of my grandmother and gone above and beyond. Some reviewers feel Harbor Health offers the best care.
Patients waited hours for pain relief and for water, being told to wait. Caregivers scrubbed skin so hard during baths that large sores formed. An enema was given without proper documentation, reportedly causing bowel perforation and sepsis. Family members were denied access to see patients in their rooms. A caregiver openly admitted disliking performing basic care and walked out. The facility was described as stark, underdressed, and unwelcoming, with patients needing to be moved. Understaffing led to long waits for care, dirty conditions, ripped sheets, and no towels. The food was awful and served cold at every meal. Residents with dementia were subjected to demeaning comments about family visits. Belongings and clothing were lost or never returned from laundry; items were not labeled or tracked. Residents were left in urine for hours, with inadequate changes or hygiene. The environment smelled of urine and felt worn out, indicating poor sanitation. Some patients did not receive IV fluids or comfort care due to illness, resulting in dehydration and inadequate relief. A resident was moved to another wing without notification, causing confusion and distress.A troubling chorus of experiences emerges from the many voices who visited Harbor Health and its facilities, painting a picture of a place where care can feel both inconsistent and episodically compassionate. Across multiple stories, families describe a system stretched thin, where delays, miscommunications, and concerns about cleanliness and dignity collide with moments when individual nurses and aides do their best under trying conditions. The threads run through hospital transfers, rehab stays, and long-term care, and they culminate in a complex portrait of a care environment with real highs and profound lows. The facility is known among some families as Breakwater Village in its Sussex wing, and the alternating praise and critique reflect a broader reality: care quality seems highly variable from one shift to the next, and from one staff member to another.
Several accounts center on the most basic needs going unmet for hours at a time. One family member recounted waiting four hours for a pain pill and "for hours and for a glass of water," with the staffer's reply being a blunt "you'll have to wait till I get to you." In another instance, a patient repeatedly rang for assistance and waited so long that caregivers described the experience as a continuous, frustrating delay. The sense of helplessness in these moments is palpable, underscoring a perception that urgent, essential care was sometimes treated as secondary to other tasks or simply not available promptly. The repeated refrain in these stories is that patients are left to wait, sometimes in discomfort, while those who should be providing aid appear overwhelmed, understaffed, or disengaged.
The narrative grows more troubling with specific incidents that center on the treatment of residents' skin and bodily care. One mother's rehab stay after a broken hip is marred by reports that she waited hours for help in the bathroom, and by a bath experience in which the skin was scrubbed so hard that giant sores developed. The memories include a stark claim that an enema given by a nurse the night before was not recorded, leading to a subsequent attempt by a day nurse that allegedly perforated her bowel. The resident's resulting excruciating pain culminated in sepsis, and the family's account ends with the mother dying a few days later. The emotional weight of these allegations is compounded by the administrative friction that followed: the emergency room's questions about what happened to her legs and shoulder, and a sense that the care environment contributed to harm rather than preventing it.
Transfers to Harbor Health for extended IV antibiotic treatment introduce another layer of complexity. One family describes being refused permission to see their loved one in her room, and the initial impression of the facility as stark and unwelcoming. When the patient pleaded "you gotta get me outta here," the distress was amplified by another caregiver's remark, "I hate doing this," when asked for basic assistance with a bedpan. The sense of abandonment is reinforced by reports of continued under-staffing, a lack of timely follow-up, and frequent explanations that staff were too busy or out on another shift. The overarching sentiment in these stories is that, even when care was found elsewhere, Harbor Health was a place where families felt compelled to advocate aggressively for visibility and access.
In the rehab and long-term care narratives, a stark dichotomy emerges: some caregivers and aides are praised for their kindness and competence, while others are criticized for indifference or neglect. One claimant declares that if zero stars were possible, they would rate the experience that night with nothing but disappointment and urgency for change. Recounted issues include eight hours without assistance, being told that a patient had "washed their hands" when they requested help, instances of double-briefing and miscommunication, ripped bed sheets, and cold, unappealing meals. There are also concerning behavioral episodes, such as a CNA allegedly telling a man with dementia that his family wouldn't visit if he did not stay in his room - an account that highlights how abuse of power and fear of discipline can permeate the patient experience. Yet even within the negative climate, there are glimpses of positive care: therapists, nurses, and CNAs who go "out of their way" to help, and residents who felt seen and supported by patient staff when care was aligned with their needs.
Some reviewers offer a more balanced-than-binary view, acknowledging that not every staff member was unhelpful and that some wings or teams performed well. In particular, the Sussex wing is described as home to a number of capable CNAs and nursing staff who provide dependable care, and a few family members credit the social workers and therapists with effective coordination. A few residents and family members sing the praises of individual caregivers who deliver on dignity and attention, and a couple of storytellers point to administrators or directors - like Andrew - who are "very nice and truly caring" and who, in their view, maintain a positive attitude even in trying circumstances. The sentiment here is nuanced: while the institution is criticized for systemic shortcomings, there are clear exceptions who demonstrate the kind of care the families hoped to see throughout the patient's stay.
The most painful vignettes revolve around those who were not given enough time, attention, or comfort, especially when terminal illness or end-of-life care was involved. One family member describes a father who spent the last six months of life at Harbor Health and faced laundry mishaps, wardrobe neglect, and a sense of invisibility within the system - clothes missing, drawers left bare, and clothes that never arrived back to the patient. There is also a moving, heartbreaking account of a patient who slept in a wheelchair in a diaper because staff were short-staffed and could not provide basic comfort, followed by a clinician's decision to withhold IV fluids because the patient was considered terminal. The family's choice to move their loved one to a different facility for hospice care reflects the gravity of the situation and the expectations families hold for compassionate, preventive, and timely care in the final days.
Amid the sea of criticism, there are also testimonies from people who found hope in moments of genuine care and connection. A grandchild notes that her grandmother was consistently clean, well-fed, and engaged with physical therapy when visiting Harbor Health, praising the support she received from a staff member named Helen who made visits meaningful. Other families recount moments when the care team worked with dignity and empathy, maintaining a sense of normalcy and respect during difficult times. A recurring thread among these voices is the awareness that kindness and competence can exist alongside strain and error - sometimes in the same facility, sometimes in different wings or shifts, and sometimes from a single devoted caregiver who seems to be the exception that proves the rule.
Taken together, these accounts sketch a complex portrait of Harbor Health and its environs. The criticisms are pointed and specific: delayed medications and assistance, long waits for basic care, inadequate attention to sanitation and patient comfort, and inconsistent communication that leaves families guessing about a loved one's status. The affirmations are equally specific but fewer in number: a handful of nurses and aides who earn trust through consistent compassion; administrators and therapists who connect with families; and moments when patients experience dignified treatment and effective rehabilitation. For families weighing options, the narrative underscores the importance of diligence when selecting a facility - visits, requests for direct updates, and inquiries about staffing levels and caregiver training can be as crucial as the facility's formal credentials. In the end, every story is a reminder that healthcare, at its best, is a dedicated partnership among patients, families, and a steady, reliable care team.
179 resident community capacity
Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.
Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance. Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life. Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options. Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.
12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities. 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security. Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life. Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center in Lewes, DE is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The facility features a beauty salon, where residents can get pampered and feel their best. There is also cable or satellite TV available for entertainment purposes. Community-operated transportation is provided to ensure that residents can easily access outside resources and activities.
For those who wish to stay connected in the digital age, there is a computer center with Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available. A dining room serves delicious meals in a restaurant-style setting, and special dietary restrictions are accommodated for. Housekeeping services are provided to keep the living spaces tidy and comfortable.
Various recreational options are available at Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center. Residents can enjoy a fitness room to stay active and maintain their physical wellbeing. For those who prefer indoor activities, there is a gaming room and small library on-site. Outdoor space includes a garden where residents can relax and enjoy nature.
The community offers a range of care services to meet the individual needs of each resident. This includes 24-hour call systems and supervision for safety and peace of mind. Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, transfers, and medication management is provided by trained staff members. Special dietary restrictions, including diabetes diets, are catered for.
Residents have access to transportation arrangements for non-medical purposes as well as transportation to doctors' appointments. Move-in coordination services make the transition into the community seamless. A mental wellness program promotes emotional wellbeing among residents.
Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center is situated in an area with convenient amenities nearby. There are cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and transportation options within close proximity.
Overall, this assisted living community strives to provide a comfortable and enriching environment where residents can receive personalized care while enjoying various amenities and engaging in meaningful activities that cater to their interests and preferences.
Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center is located at 301 Ocean View Boulevard, Lewes, DE 19958 in Sussex County, Delaware
Harbor Healthcare & Rehab Center on seniors.fyi includes 13 photos including images showing interior, building, dining, decor, exercise equipment, outdoor, healthcare, architecture, and more.
Beebe Medical Ctr Home Health
Lewes, DE
Excellent access to nearby dining, healthcare, transportation, and places of worship.
Beebe Medical Ctr Home Health reviews
Beebe Medical Ctr Home Health images
Elder Assist Inc
Lewes, DE
Convenient access to dining, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, and transportation.
The Moorings at Lewes
Lewes, DE
Upscale, well-maintained facility with attentive staff and hotel-like dining.
The Moorings at Lewes costs
The Moorings at Lewes reviews
The Moorings at Lewes images
Bay Crossing
Lewes, DE
Small, intimate community with personalized care and included meal preparation and medication management.
Nassau Grove
Lewes, DE
Vibrant, well-connected assisted living with meal preparation, medication management, Wi-Fi, and easy access to local amenities.
Brandywine Living At Seaside Pointe
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Strong memory care focus with 24/7 supervision and wellness programming.
Brandywine Living At Seaside Pointe reviews
Brandywine Living At Seaside Pointe images
Brandywine Senior Living at Seaside Pointe
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Compassionate, dedicated staff with engaging activities and strong resident relationships.
Brandywine Senior Living at Seaside Pointe costs
Brandywine Senior Living at Seaside Pointe reviews
The Lodge at Truitt Homestead
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Welcoming, attentive staff with a vibrant, inclusive community; spacious apartments with full kitchens and on-site dining plus engaging activities.
The Lodge at Truitt Homestead costs
The Lodge at Truitt Homestead reviews
The Lodge at Truitt Homestead images
Luther Towers of Milton
Milton, DE
Great access to parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, and transit.
Luther Towers of Milton reviews
Luther Towers of Milton images
Nurturing Our Elders: Linda's Journey of Supporting Her Mother
Linda's caregiving journey for her elderly mother, Joan, is marked by deep love and challenges as she navigates health changes, emotional support, and practical arrangements while learning to prioritize self-care and utilize community resources. Their evolving relationship highlights resilience and the universal themes of empathy and preparedness in caregiver experiences.
A Comprehensive Exploration of Common Misunderstandings about Powers of Attorney
The article clarifies common misconceptions about Powers of Attorney (POA), highlighting the necessity of the principal's consent, the limitations on an agent's authority, and the importance of mental capacity when signing. It also distinguishes between various types of POAs, addresses concerns about potential abuse, and emphasizes the need for legal consultation to ensure valid and up-to-date documents.
Senior Move Management: Understanding the Role, Value, and Associated Costs
Senior move management provides specialized support for older adults relocating by assisting with logistics, emotional challenges, and downsizing decisions to ensure a smooth transition to new living environments. These services address the unique needs of seniors and have become increasingly important as baby boomers retire and seek to downsize.
Interior
Outdoors
Decor
Building
Architecture
Bedroom
Lighting
Outdoor
Tree
Exercise Equipment
Fitness
Assistance
