Designates first week in August as "Adult Diaper Need Awareness Week" in New Jersey.
Impact
The resolution serves to draw attention to the profound effects that adult diaper need has on individuals’ health and well-being. Nearly 25 million American adults struggle with incontinence, with the issue being notably more prevalent among older populations, especially women. The rising costs of these essential products can range from $80 to $300 monthly, placing an additional financial strain on individuals, many of whom are already living on limited incomes. By formally recognizing this week, the state is taking a step towards validating the experiences of these adults and fostering community support.
Summary
Assembly Resolution AR97 designates the first week in August as 'Adult Diaper Need Awareness Week' in New Jersey. The intention of this resolution is to highlight the significant public health issue of adult diaper need faced by millions of Americans. Many adults, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities, suffer from incontinence and are at risk of not having sufficient access to necessary products. Raising awareness during this designated week aims to ensure that the needs of these individuals are recognized and addressed.
Contention
Opponents of disability rights and elder health advocacy may argue that this resolution, while important for awareness, does not address the systemic issues, such as insurance coverage gaps for incontinence products. Many private health plans and federal programs like Medicare and Medicaid provide limited or no coverage for adult diapers, highlighting a significant area of concern that the resolution does not encompass. The focus on raising awareness must also pivot to actionable items—true changes in policy or funding to ensure that adults in need can access these life-sustaining supplies without financial burden.
Establishing the Community Diaper, Brief and Incontinence Products Grant Fund; directing the Department of Aging to establish a program to improve access to incontinence supplies; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of Human Services.