Does Medicare Cover Adult Diapers? What Seniors Should Know in 2025
If you're managing incontinence or caring for a loved one who is, the cost of adult diapers can quickly add up. While Medicare offers coverage for a wide range of medical needs, adult diapers are a gray area for many. The good news? There are ways to access these essential supplies affordably—even through some Medicare-related plans.
Does Original Medicare Cover Adult Diapers?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not typically cover disposable incontinence supplies like adult diapers, pads, or liners. Since these items are considered “non-durable” and used for hygiene rather than treatment, they're excluded from standard Medicare coverage.
However, that doesn’t mean seniors are out of options.
How to Get Adult Diapers Through a Medicare Plan
To get coverage for adult diapers, you’ll likely need to look at Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. These are private plans approved by Medicare that often offer extra benefits beyond what Original Medicare provides.
Some Medicare Advantage plans include an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance that can be used for health-related products—including adult diapers, bladder pads, and similar supplies. Here’s how to get started:
- Call Your Medicare Advantage Provider – Ask if incontinence supplies are included under your OTC benefit.
- Shop From Plan-Approved Retailers – These may include CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, or an online portal tied to your specific plan.
- Use Your OTC Allowance Before It Expires – Most plans reset benefits monthly or quarterly, so don’t let it go to waste.
Even if you don’t currently have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch during open enrollment (October 15 – December 7) to find one that includes this kind of benefit.
Where to Find Discounts on Adult Diapers
Even without insurance, there are affordable ways to access adult diapers:
- Medicaid (if eligible) – Medicaid programs in many states cover incontinence supplies. Dual-eligible seniors (those on both Medicare and Medicaid) may qualify for full coverage.
- Medical Supply Companies – Vendors like Carewell, NorthShore, and HDIS offer discounts on bulk orders and subscription services.
- Pharmacy Retailers – Big-box chains like Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens frequently run sales and offer store-brand options that cost less.
- Manufacturer Coupons – Brands like Depend, TENA, and Prevail offer discounts through their websites or mailing programs.
- Local Aging Agencies – Many senior resource centers provide guidance or one-time assistance with purchasing incontinence products.
Extra Tips to Save and Stay Prepared
- Set Up Auto-Ship – Subscribing can save up to 20% per order and ensures you’re never caught short.
- Talk to Your Doctor – A diagnosis on file for incontinence may help unlock coverage options under Medicaid or supplemental benefits.
- Explore Diaper Banks – Nonprofits and community diaper banks provide free or low-cost incontinence products for qualified seniors.
Conclusion
While Original Medicare doesn’t cover adult diapers, Medicare Advantage plans and other resources can offer relief. By exploring OTC allowances, discount suppliers, and community programs, seniors can manage incontinence affordably and with dignity. Whether you're caring for yourself or a loved one, it pays to know your options—and take advantage of every benefit available.
Sources
Medicare.gov – https://www.medicare.gov
Carewell – https://www.carewell.com
NorthShore Care Supply – https://www.northshorecare.com
HDIS – https://www.hdis.com
Walmart Pharmacy – https://www.walmart.com
Depend – https://www.depend.com
TENA – https://www.tena.us
Prevail – https://www.prevail.com