Bill > AR105

This resolution memorializes the United States Congress to expand Medicare coverage to include eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures, addressing significant healthcare challenges faced by older Americans. The resolution highlights that nearly 100% of people over 55 experience presbyopia (age-related vision changes), approximately 42% of elderly Medicare recipients have hearing loss, and many seniors suffer from periodontitis and tooth loss. Currently, Medicare does not cover these essential assistive devices, which can be prohibitively expensive, with hearing aids ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The resolution argues that covering these costs would improve elderly Americans' quality of life, restore their dignity, and alleviate the financial burden on senior citizens who often live on fixed incomes. If passed, the resolution would formally request that Congress draft and enact legislation mandating Medicare coverage for these medical devices, and it requires that copies of the resolution be sent to key congressional leaders and representatives from the state.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/AR105