EliHealth Initiative, a Newtown women’s health nonprofit focused on underserved women, announced it has received a grant from the David N. Lane Trust for Aged & Indigent Women, administered by Bank of America, to support pelvic health education and treatment access for financially disadvantaged older women.

EliHealth said bladder leakage can limit work, exercise, travel and social activities, while the ongoing cost of pads strains limited budgets. Many women assume leaks are simply part of getting older, and the organization said managing them is not the same as treating them. EliHealth said that for women on limited incomes, leakage can mean avoiding time with family, giving up activities or spending money on pads instead of other necessities.

Daly Johnson, director of EliHealth Initiative, said: “Women may avoid seeking care because they assume bladder leakage is normal or worry about the cost. We want women to know urinary incontinence is usually treatable, and options may be more accessible than they realize.”

EliHealth said treatment options include pelvic floor therapy and treatments used at home. For qualifying patients, pelvic floor stimulation may be covered by Medicare or Connecticut Medicaid.

With grant support, EliHealth plans to partner with community health organizations to educate women about treatment options, help them understand potential insurance coverage and provide direct treatment assistance to those who cannot afford care.

The nonprofit is seeking donations, foundation grants and corporate partnerships to help underserved women access pelvic health care.