April 2025

Videos Make the Case for Raising New Jersey's PNA

Nursing home residents are the stars of a social media campaign to bolster support for New Jersey Assembly Bill A3908 and Senate Bill S3319, which would increase the personal needs allowance (PNA) from $50 to $140 a month.

The PNA is the $50-a-month income that Medicaid-eligible residents get to keep from their benefits to pay for clothes, shoes, haircuts, necessities, and food not provided by the nursing home. Thirty-one other states and the District of Columbia provide their residents with a higher PNA.

Residents have been working with Community Engagement to record videos highlighting how far $50 goes — or does not go — toward meeting their needs.

Check out videos at or follow the LTCO, @njelderombudsman, on Facebook, Instagram, or BlueSky.

Medicaid Cuts Would Affect Nursing Home Residents

NJ Nursing Home Residents United, a statewide group working closely with LTCO's Community Engagement Program, is striving to keep fellow residents informed about possible cuts to Medicaid — the largest funding source for nursing homes in New Jersey.

The group’s first message, urges residents to call their representatives in Congress to ask them to protect Medicaid. Read the full message on page 2.

Medicaid cuts will hit us where we live

A budget fight going on in Washington, DC, may seem like it's a world away, but it will impact us right here in New Jersey.

If YOU live in a nursing home...

Medicaid likely covers your:

• Room and board
• Medical and dental
• Physical therapy
• Activities
• Social services

Even if you are not on Medicaid personally, cuts to the program might lead to layoffs or other issues at your nursing home.

Medicaid cuts might affect your family and friends, too. People with disabilities and older adults living in the community receive services funded by Medicaid. Millions of families and children receive health coverage through Medicaid.

How YOU can help- fight to save Medicaid
Have your zip code ready and call
866-426-2631
To be connected to your Congresspeople.
Tell them, "SAVE MEDICAID!""
NJ Nursing Home Residents United / community@ltco.nj.gov