Medicare Coverage for Adjustable Beds: What Seniors Need to Know

When it comes to Medicare adjustable beds, a type of medical equipment designed to improve sleep posture and reduce pain for people with mobility or chronic health issues. Also known as electric hospital beds, these aren’t just fancy mattresses—they’re classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), medical devices prescribed for long-term use at home under Medicare Part B. If you’re dealing with conditions like arthritis, COPD, sciatica, or severe back pain, an adjustable bed might not just make life easier—it could be medically necessary.

Medicare doesn’t cover every bed you can buy online. It only pays for models that meet strict clinical criteria and are prescribed by a licensed doctor. The bed must help with breathing, reduce pressure sores, or improve positioning for people who can’t move easily in a flat bed. It can’t be purely for comfort. You’ll need a written order from your doctor, proof of medical need, and the bed must come from a Medicare-approved supplier. Many people assume Medicare covers the full cost, but it usually pays 80% after you hit your Part B deductible. The rest is your responsibility, unless you have a Medicare Advantage plan that offers extra benefits.

Related items like specialized mattresses, pressure-relief overlays, or even bedside rails might also be covered if they’re part of the same prescribed setup. But things like remote controls, extra pillows, or decorative headboards? Those are out. What’s included matters just as much as why you need it. Some seniors confuse these beds with regular adjustable bases sold for home use—those won’t qualify. Only medical-grade models with features like tilt, elevation, and height adjustment designed for clinical use are eligible.

If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your doctor about documenting your condition clearly. Mention how you struggle to get in and out of bed, how pain wakes you up at night, or how you need to sit up to breathe. These details help justify the need. Don’t skip the paperwork—Medicare requires it. And always check if your supplier is enrolled in Medicare. Buying from a non-approved vendor means you pay everything out of pocket.

Below, you’ll find real guides and tips from people who’ve been through this process. From understanding what Medicare actually covers to choosing the right bed model and avoiding common approval mistakes, these posts cut through the confusion. Whether you’re helping a parent, planning ahead, or managing your own health, you’ll find clear, no-fluff advice here.