Disability Benefits for Dementia

Is Dementia a disability? Let’s know Some More about this!

The Social Security Administration (SSA) includes dementia as a disabling condition in its listing of impairments known as the Blue Book. The Blue Book contains medical criteria for the SSA to evaluate impairments for disability benefits.  It describes impairments considered severe enough to prevent an individual from doing any gainful activity and are permanent or expected to result in death, a stated duration, or for a continuous period of twelve months.

Having a condition that meets the criteria of the Blue Book will establish that you have suffered a disabling condition long enough to have your claim considered by the SSA; though it does not guarantee a claim for benefits will be approved.

If you have been diagnosed with dementia and are experiencing severe limitations, you may wish to consider applying for Social Security disability benefits. Dementia is not exclusive to older people, as those under the age of 65 years account for up to 9% of cases.  People with many years of life remaining can be forced into unemployment and dependency long before they should. The Social Security Disability program may be a lifesaver for those affected by the condition.

If dementia limits your ability to work and function properly, you may be entitled to receive disability for dementia. Read on to learn more about the condition and improve your chances of being approved for disability benefits.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a term used to describe symptoms that affect an individual’s thinking abilities, memory, and social abilities. A person may have difficulty in remembering and memorizing even small details. It may affect an individual’s thinking and problem-solving abilities, which can affect their day-to-day lives.

It often becomes difficult for people who have dementia to work because of their memory and thinking abilities. They quickly forget, which makes them unfit for a lot of skilled jobs. If you have been diagnosed with dementia you can seek disability for dementia benefits to help you with finances. Disability benefits will provide you financial support necessary for daily living.

Types of Dementia

The following are types of Dementia:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Frontotemporal disorders
• Lewy body dementia
• Vascular Dementia
• Mixed Dementia
• Parkinson’s disease dementia
• Huntington’s disease

There are no cures available for several types of dementia. Many people are diagnosed with mixed dementia, which is a combination of one or more types. Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the most common causes of dementia in older adults. Many conditions can lead to dementia or cause symptoms similar to or resemble that of dementia.

For example, many people experience memory loss because of certain medical conditions, but it will go away if treated properly. If you have been experiencing memory loss or other symptoms related to dementia, you should speak to a professional as soon as possible.

Treatment Options Available for Dementia

Your doctor will generally review your medical history and conduct several tests to determine the cause and severity of your condition. Based on your condition, your physician will suggest the appropriate medication or therapy. Various medications may help in treating the condition.

It can also be treated using non-drug approaches and therapies. The medicines will help in treating the disease temporarily. The treatment will depend on the severity of your situation and symptoms. If the symptoms are severe, the physician might recommend a mix of therapies along with regular medications.

Can you get disability for Dementia?

As noted, Dementia has been listed as an impairment in the Blue Book by the Social Security Administration. Therefore, you can get disability benefits if you meet the eligibility criteria established by the SSA. To qualify for disability benefits, you must experience the symptoms and other criteria published in the Blue Book. If you are not experiencing those symptoms, your application might be denied.

Multiple functional areas will be evaluated when evaluation disability benefits for Dementia, including:

• Ability to remember and learn
• Ability to interact and socialize
• Ability to use language effectively
• Ability to use words properly or recall words
• Ability to concentrate
• Physical coordination
• Planning abilities
• Ability to understand and use information properly
• Ability to concentrate on tasks
• Ability to interact and socialize with other people
• Managing oneself

You must have medical evidence to show that your symptoms are affecting these functional areas. Without medical evidence, you will never be approved for disability benefits. Therefore, it is necessary to be treated by a certified medical professional and keep a record of all tests and documents.

If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria, you could still be approved for dementia and disability benefits. Your RFC or Residual Functional Capacity will be considered in the evaluation. Your RFC is a measure of the amount of work you are still capable of doing. Factors such as education, previous job records, skills, and transferable skills will be considered to evaluate the RFC. The SSA will make a decision based on your RFC. If they think you can still work, you will not be approved for benefits.

How to get disability benefits for Dementia?

You can fill in the online application form or visit your local Social Security Office to begin the application process. We strongly recommend consulting a Social Security Disability lawyer before starting the whole process. The lawyer will help you understand the eligibility criteria and evidence needed. If you have any concerns over anything, you can speak to them. They will assist you at each step and improve your odds of receiving disability benefits.

Berke Law Firm, P.A. has a 35+ year experienced team of disability lawyers in Florida who can assist you with filing a disability application for dementia correctly the first time. We will stand by your side and help at every step until you receive the benefits you are entitled to for your ailment.