Talbot County, Maryland

02/17/2026

Category: Commission on Aging County Council

The Talbot County Commission on Aging, in partnership with the Talbot County Health Department, Talbot County Department of Social Services, and Upper Shore Aging, is reminding residents that the Senior Supply Drive will conclude soon and encourages community members to donate before the end of the month.

The annual effort collects essential incontinence supplies for low-income older adults in our community. While these items are critical to daily health and dignity, they are often not fully covered by insurance and can place a significant strain on seniors living on fixed incomes.

The financial burden is substantial. On average:

• Bladder pads cost about $30 per month when using three per day
• Incontinence underwear costs about $60 per month when using three per day
• Bed pads cost about $40 per month when using two per day

For seniors relying solely on Social Security or facing housing insecurity, these monthly expenses can mean difficult tradeoffs between hygiene supplies and other basic needs such as rent, food, and medication.

Behind every donation is a real person in Talbot County.

A 79-year-old woman who is currently homeless visits the Health Department weekly to receive donated incontinence supplies. These items help her maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.

A 67-year-oldwoman who recently lost her mother, and whose Social Security income helped support their household, is now facing financial hardship. Donated bladder pads and incontinence underwear allow her to stretch her limited income for other necessities.

A 73-year-old man who was previously homeless and is now staying in temporary shelter, depends on donated supplies so he can remain active in the community while maintaining his dignity.

A 74-year-old woman living on a very limited monthly income relies on donated bladder and bed pads so she can afford rent, food, and medications. “These supplies are essential to health, dignity, and independence,” said Carrie Ottey, RN, BSN, Program Manager for Senior Services at the Talbot County Health Department. “For many seniors, this is not an extra expense. It is a basic need. Community donations make a direct and immediate impact in helping our older residents live safely and with dignity.”

Residents are encouraged to donate new, unopened packages of bladder control pads, disposable incontinence underwear in all sizes, and disposable bed pads. Monetary donations are also accepted and will be used to purchase needed items.

Donation locations and additional details are available at: https://talbotcountymd.gov/seniorsupplydrive

With the drive ending soon, organizers hope the community will continue to show strong support in these final weeks. Every package donated directly supports a senior right here in Talbot County.