Designates second week of November of each year as "Urinary Incontinence Awareness Week" in New Jersey.
Impact
The bill highlights that urinary incontinence, while generally not life-threatening, can severely affect social interactions, employment, and overall quality of life. Specifically, it points to individuals who are at higher risk, including elderly citizens, women post-pregnancy, and those with certain health conditions. The designation of this awareness week is intended to educate the public about this condition, its prevalence, and the various treatment options available.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution No. 60 (SJR60) proposes to officially designate the second week of November as "Urinary Incontinence Awareness Week" in New Jersey. This legislative effort aims to raise awareness about urinary incontinence, a condition affecting over 26 million people in the United States. The bill emphasizes the significant impact of this condition on individuals' quality of life and daily functioning.
Contention
One notable aspect of SJR60 is its focus on the economic burden of urinary incontinence, which has substantial implications for both individuals and healthcare systems, particularly as the population ages. The bill argues that many senior citizens, often living on fixed incomes, face financial hardships due to the costs associated with urinary incontinence products, which exceed $1 billion annually in the U.S. There may be discussions surrounding how best to support those affected, including addressing the stigma associated with the condition and improving access to necessary healthcare resources.
Establishing the Community Diaper and Incontinence Products Grant Program and the Community Diaper and Incontinence Products Grant Program 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.