Accessing Assistive Technology for Daily Living in New Jersey
GrantID: 11188
Grant Funding Amount Low: $15,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $15,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Cost Constraints in New Jersey
The state of New Jersey faces significant challenges related to healthcare access, particularly for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD). According to recent estimates, over 15,000 New Jersey residents are living with PD, a number expected to grow as the population ages. Accessing assistive technologiesspecifically designed to enhance mobility, communication, and self-carecan be prohibitively expensive for many families. In New Jersey, where healthcare costs are notoriously high, many individuals with PD fall short of affording the necessary tools that would enable them to maintain independence in their daily lives.
Who Faces the Barrier Locally
In New Jersey, individuals with Parkinson's disease are not the only ones affected by these financial barriers; their caregivers and families also experience significant strain. Many caregivers, often family members, face challenges in managing the financial costs associated with PD care, including the implementation of assistive technologies. For instance, devices designed to enhance mobility, such as specialized walkers or communication devices, can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, creating a financial burden that is often unmanageable. As a result, many patients do not obtain necessary technologies, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Funding to Address Cost Constraints
The Foundation’s community grants aim to alleviate these financial burdens by providing access to assistive technology tools specifically for New Jersey residents living with Parkinson's disease. These grants support local programs dedicated to increasing access to mobility aids, communication devices, and other assistive technologies. By channeling funds directly to established healthcare facilities and service providers, the program ensures that the technology reaches the individuals who need it most. This funding will not only enhance independence for those with PD but also empower caregivers by enabling them to provide more effective support.
Additionally, the funding helps to offset costs associated with training healthcare providers in the effective use of assistive technology. This training is crucial for ensuring that patients are not only provided with the necessary devices but also understand how to use them effectively to enhance their daily living.
The Implications for New Jersey Residents
By focusing on increasing access to assistive technologies, the Foundation's community grants in New Jersey aim to transform the landscape for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Enhanced mobility, improved communication, and better self-care protocols can significantly improve the everyday experiences of patients. With New Jersey's aging populationover 30% of residents are age 60 or olderaddressing these needs has become increasingly important. The program’s localized approach focuses on New Jersey's unique demographic and economic challenges.
Moreover, ensuring patients remain physically active and socially engaged through the utilization of assistive technology can lead to better health outcomes, ultimately relieving some of the strain on the state’s healthcare system. Empowering individuals to live independently is not only beneficial for those directly impacted but also has far-reaching effects on their families and communities, helping to create a healthier, more supportive environment for all New Jersey residents.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
